Add your comments and feedback on at least 2 of the sources included within the review of academic sources.
You should not be commenting on the source you added but on other people's.
Please use the correct reference within your discussion. See the example below.
Add your discussion comments under this line with your name and word count included.
In the review of Cole (2004) Carly talks about the importance of teachers learning about the many different “specific learning difficulties”. I believe this book would be extremely helpful for teachers so they are able to have a basic idea of how children are affected by learning difficulties and what we as teachers can do to understand and support the child and their family. If we do not have the understanding we will not be able give them the same learning experience which would not benefit the child in any way.
I have no experience with learning difficulties and I feel it would be great to know, I believe reading this book would offer me awareness on specific learning difficulties.
120 words Anita Jacobs
In the review Brownlee (2004) Rose discusses the importance of children being able to choose their own creative work without teachers interfering but supporting. I agree with this completely, in my work experience centre I was sitting with some children while they were drawing and one of the children showed a teacher their artwork asking if the teacher liked it and she said to him it was not very good and that he should start again. After she had said this his facial expression changed from being very proud of his picture to disappointed in what he had done. I then said to him quietly do you like your picture? He smiled at me and said yes and I replied the main thing is you like it, he then went on to tell me about what is picture was and what everyone was doing I was even lucky enough to get a picture for myself.
I would enjoy reading this book because I would be very interested in learning how I can encourage children to be creative but to be creative in what they want to do.
187 Words Anita Jacobs
Discussion comments:
In the review of Ladd (2007) Anita discusses about the influence peers have on each other. The review goes on to add that a child learns more from their peers and siblings than from parents and teachers because they identify themselves with their peer group. Personally, I have seen that if a child is not willing to try a food and if they see their friends enjoying it, they want to try it for themselves or if they haven’t tried a sport or activity before and they watch their peers enjoying it, they want to ‘give it a go’. They learn both by observing their peers and by the reactions they get. This is not surprising at all because there are more children in early childhood centre than there are adults and they learn from each other.
I would definitely like to read this book and increase my understanding of children behaviour. I personally agree with it for children do learn by observing and imitating each other. I would like to get a copy of the book so that it can guide me in my journey towards becoming a teacher.
Jay Joshi
190 words.
In the review of Brownlee (2004) Rose emphasizes the significance of creativity for children. It discuses the importance of letting the child make its own decision about their work and using their imagination to the fullest. I agree children should be given adequate encouragement so that they feel proud of their creation. The piece of art should be displayed and presented well. This gives the child a sense of achievement and knows his work is valued. It is also imperative to know that the process of creativity is more vital that the artwork itself and care should be taken when asking questions about the artwork for sometimes the child could feel unsure as to why such a question is being asked.
I found the review insightful, helpful and interesting. I absolutely agree that the child should be given full reign in deciding about their creative process for creativity is a way of expression for the child. I would definitely use the advice given by the author in regards to creativity of a child.
Jay Joshi
173 words.
In the review of Brownlee (2004) Rose discusses the importance of a child’s creative process. I can appreciate how others, with good intentions, can interfere with this creative flow by my own adult experience of being given a task with guidelines and an expectation to create a particular end product versus having the freedom to find my own creativity and enjoying the process without consideration for the end product. Under pressure the creative process was stifled and I was more conscious of my inabilities than my creativity. The review covered how the author encouraged adults to treat children’s artwork with ‘enthusiasm and respect’ and to present this work well. Communication is also a key, giving examples to the reader of how a child can interpret what we say to them, especially when it is in regard to their own work.
Rose’s review reflected the information that this book has on offer and that it would prove to be invaluable to all people who care for children and wish to support them in their journey of creative discovery. With the help of this book, I also look forward to re-igniting my own creativity as I take advantage of what Brownlee has to offer.
Rhonda Warner
202 words
In the review of Porter (2003) Aimee highlights the importance of being aware of how we discipline children and the impact this makes on the child. Both the ‘control’ and ‘guidance’ approaches are discussed with the author preferring the latter. Viewing the use of rewards and punishment being dictated by a boss gives an interesting slant on this form of controlling discipline whereas having the educator being viewed in a leadership role, guiding the child to direct their actions in a positive way sits much more comfortably within an early childhood education setting. Extending our knowledge to view disruptive behaviour as a learning opportunity would be an invaluable tool for anyone who works with children. Aimee also emphasises that the author believes educators send mix messages when disciplining children for being creative. We want child to think outside the square, but not act outside it. Achieving both creativity and appropriate behaviour is a constructive goal to work towards.
This book sounds full of practical, instructive information that I would be interested in adding to my teaching philosophy. I feel these tools would benefit both my teaching abilities and the children I work with.
Rhonda Warner
193 words
In the review of Brownlee (2004), Rose shows that the main topic of the chapter ‘The Creative Process’ is how children’s creativity is developed. I believe that this reading would be useful to me as I often find that I struggle to provide children with new and stimulating learning opportunities for creativity. Also in Rose’s review, she shows that within Brownlee’s reading, he talks of the importance of respecting a child’s artwork. Adults need to be careful and aware of certain things during their interaction with a child and their creativity, but must never influence the creation of the piece. The adult needs to recognise that it is the process, not the product that is important. I find this topic interesting, valuable, and relevant to circumstances that occur every day. This reading is about a way of thinking about children and their creativity. I admire this, and want to train my mind to think in these ways, so I believe this reading would be of great use to me.
Word count: 169 Carly Bean
In the review of Ladd (2007), Anita shows that the chapter Social Learning in the Peer Context is about the importance of a child learning through social behavior. I find this topic to be very interesting as I believe that this is an area in early childhood that I need to know more about. As I work with infants and toddlers, it can sometimes be difficult to see and understand the mechanics of how these young children learn and work together. It is shown in the review that children learn from their peers, as they have more in common with each other than with adults. This interested me, as it shows the importance of having a child included in an early childhood setting. As shown in Anita’s review, children learn a great deal from their peers by observing, mimicking, and working as a team. These are things that we, as teachers, can not teach, but can provide the opportunity for the child to do for him/herself. I believe this chapter would be useful as it would allow me to understand that socialising is an important part of growing and learning that each child needs to encounter.
Word count: 196 Carly Bean
Source1:
In Response to Roses Resource:The Creative Process by Brownlee, Pennie (2004).
I feel as if she has made a few valid points to which we could look into further, it is very interesting to read that some one (Brownlee, P) has taken the time to collect information on how a child can interoperates your actions as an educator with their creative work.
I think that this would be a good read to see how (Brownlee, P) talks more in-depth about this. As everyday working with children is valuable and I would very much like to never give a child the impression that their work is not appreciated or not wanted.
So thanks Rose for this it has got me thinking.
(121 words)
Source 2:
In response to Maia and her Resource:
Gerber, M. (2002). Praise or acknowledgment
This has some very interesting facts, which grabbed my attention. I find when I’m teaching the children and they do something fantastic, I change my pitch and tone of my voice, and tell them how great that was and how well they did, but reading that reflection on the book Maia read makes me think am I praising the children in the right way, am I praising the child, or the action and what are the children getting from my response to them. I think this is some great research that Maia has done and it would be great to get a hold of this book and read more as this important to my teaching.
(131 words)
By Milly Crawford
In the review of Cole (2004), Carly discusses the affects of specific learning difficulties, specifically, asperger’s syndrome, on children and their learning. First I needed to find out what asperger’s is…… Asperger’s is a mild form of autism which is displayed through difficulties in social interaction and repetitive and restricted patterns in behaviour and interests. Physical clumsiness is also a symptom.
After reading Carly’s review (and googling asperger’s) a few questions came to mind; does this book detail symptoms of the learning difficulties? How can it be identified? Does it give advice on how to address this issue if you suspect a child has a learning difficulty? Does it compare how a ‘normal’ child’s mind works with a child’s mind who suffers from a learning difficulty?
I would be extremely interested in reading this book to hopefully find some answers, and understand how I am able to identify learning difficulties, how a child with a learning difficulty learns and is taught, and how I, as an educator can assist and support them.
Aimee Watson
Word Count 169
An adult’s role in children’s play is discussed in Anjani’s review of Dockett & Fleer (1999). This chapter has made me more aware of the role I take when interacting with children. It has highlighted the importance of observation of play and details the roles that an adult undertakes when conducting play with children. Examples are well documented throughout the chapter, making it easy to relate the text back to my own practice. I spend a lot of time interacting with children and after reading this chapter I feel I have a better understanding of the learning that takes place through play. I have realised that I quite often become a tutor and tend to take over when interacting with children. I would like to take a more supportive role in children’s learning through play and now feel equipped to stand back, observe and assess the play that is taking place before I sit down and join the children.
Aimee Watson
Word Count 159
I refer to the review sourced by Paula Rudd on Kei Tua o te Pae (Assessment for Learning: Early Childhood Exemplars). It was only this afternoon 16/3/10 that I came across the whole file of 20 books referred to, at our office and I found them informative and interesting. The few that I looked at were said to be structured around Te Whariki and focused on reviews or assessments of learning in early childhood centers. The exemplars have shown creative and visible learning ideas that can be shared and discussed with staff and will give a head start for the student teachers on how to write a learning story or assist with the activities they might want to explore. The inclusion of Maori language is a great beginning in recognizing the Te Reo and the books are easy to read, without having to refer to the dictionary every so often. The Exemplars have illustrated and demonstrated a diversity of learning from a variety of backgrounds and cultures and the feedback from parents confirm their participation in the children’s learning. Sara Tanielu-Seve
181 Words
In reference to a review sourced by Maia Thompson on Gerber (2002), the reading was challenging and testing in the sense that made me wondered whether how am I being, when acknowledging or praising the children. I have an only child who is four years old, and to see her face when she is being commended for something she had done, says it all and suggested that she too, was pleased with whatever she was praised for. Gerber (2002) affirms how praising a child over the action might be received negatively which I feel is true but to praise when something is achieved in a positive surrounding without making them or the other playmate feel inadequate, is important. A lot of times they may just need your happy face to let them know that they are doing great, as actions do speak louder than words in some situations. This book will definitely help me with my communications and relations with the children and with my own child. “Good girl Maia.” Sara Tanielu-Seve
176 Words
I was dismayed, yet elated to see Dear Parent: Caring for infants with respect (Gerber, 2002) reviewed. Dismayed as I had thought of reviewing the book myself and elated that others had already discovered the great source of information included in the book. Not only is the chapter covered by Maia relevant but the entire book is worth a read. I feel the book can help you reflect on the way you deal with infants but can also inspire you to be more respectful in your relationship with them. As discussed by Maia the book covers praise or acknowledgment as well as many different topics from movement to biting to toilet training. The book was handed to me by my head teacher on my first day at the centre. Once I had read the book I could understand why. All the topics covered in the book come with advice on how to deal with these in a respectful manner. I feel all people like to be valued and treated with respect so why should infants feel any differently. The book encourages parents and educators to do just that, treat infants in their care with respect. Magda Gerber is well known in the field of early childhood and her philosophy of respect much admired. I would recommend this book to anyone dealing with infants in any capacity.
By Paula Rudd Word Count 226
In the review of Cole (2004) Carly draws attention to Aspergers syndrome. After reading this review and sourcing the book I agree that having knowledge of learning difficulties is imperative to our success as teachers. The information provided by sufferers of this condition also gave a very human element to the research. This review held particular importance to me as an adult family member of mine suffers from mild Aspergers. Despite knowing this and being what I consider to be an empathetic person I have at times become frustrated with his behaviour and thought of him as lazy, socially inept and immature. Through examining the symptoms of Aspergers I started to recognise where my relative's behaviour originates from. This review gave me a greater understanding of Aspergers and I realised mild sufferers who achieved well academically although struggled socially and with life skills almost have an invisible disability, where the behaviour of the individual is considered normal enough at times that they do not necessarily get the help they need. I wonder if my relative would have found it easier to ‘fit in’ with society if as a child his teachers had been knowledgeable of ‘specific learning difficulties’ such as Aspergers? Therefore, we must endeavour to understand what type of behaviour children with these conditions present. If we are able to recognise these conditions we can seek the help we need to assist the children in our care, giving them the best opportunities for learning. It saddens me to think that children could be as harshly judged as my relative through mere ignorance and lack of understanding.
267 words
Maia Thompson
In the review of O’Connor and Diggins (2002) Merrilee talks about the important of being a reflective practitioner. When I was reading the attached text I was struck by the comment that a practitioner who is confidant in their abilities is more likely to accept constructive criticism and reflect on their practice and see where improvements can be made. This was an interesting read as it explains how important it is to reflect on events so we can make changes otherwise we will continue to do the same things out of habit, even if they are not working. From looking at this review I feel this book would be a useful tool to us as teachers as it gives us the skills to continue to grow and learn after we have finished our studies and are in the workforce.
139 words
Maia Thompson
Nimlesh Narayan
In the review of Ladd (2007) Anita explains that children learn more from their peers than from their parents. When I am at my work experience centre,children tend to communicate with their peers very well. If there is any interference of an adult, the communication at some stage breaks. Children are interested in copying adults but they always want to try new acts with their peers. As mentioned in the review, children learn from their peers by working together,observing their peers and mimicking. I have also noticed in my work experience centre when children work in groups they do very well and I do agree with Anita. I will be interested to do more readings on "Contemporary perspectives on socialisation and social development" to know how children behave and learn from their peers and how I can use this knowledge into practice as becoming a Teacher.
(word count 150)
Nimlesh Narayan
In the review of Brownlee (2004) Rose explains that the creative process in children is important and I totally agree to this. Children are very creative and they only need adults support and encouragement. At my work experience centre, children were playing in the sandpit and they asked me to sit at their pretend dinner table. As children were busy cooking, a child came with a bucket full of leaves and said to me, "Nimlesh, this is our pretend lettuce for dinner".That day I learnt something from a child and I was proud of her. Leaves can be pretend lettuce which I never thought about it. The more they pretend, the more creative they become in life. I am very much interested in reading this book and have a copy of my own because I want to learn more on how I can support and encourage children in their creativity as a teacher.
(word count 148)
In the review of MacNaughton, Williams (2004) Nim discusses the authors view’s on praising children. This book will interest me, given my discussion with a teacher at my centre who believes the opposite. Chapter 6 sounds as if it has some helpful information for asking children to help each other, as this is an area that I haven’t given a great deal of thought to yet. I am encouraged by this book’s idea’s to encourage non verbally and not to take over the child’s work. I have found a great many children are unwilling to take on writing their name on work, but with a scaffolding technique, have discovered that they do very well all by themselves. This is a wonderful sense of achievement for the children and also for me, as I feel that we have both achieved. For a teacher there is no greater reward than seeing the delight on a child’s face when I praise them for a job well done. I am interested to see if they refer to the scaffolding technique I referred to, where we encourage a child to take a tiny step at a time. If children say “I can’t write my name”, ask if they can write the first letter, often they can. Then talk them though each letter until they succeed!
220 words Cathy Bolton
Rose’s review on Brownlee (2004) has been reviewed to death, probably because it’s a topic we can all relate to. In question one the majority of us have a tendency to be kinesthetic, and perhaps this reflects that the majority are creative people. I definitely am. It’s a passion of mine and as I have always said to children who say that they can’t draw. ANYONE can draw, it’s just that the way we draw is different to everyone. You can put a bunch of flowers on a table and ask them to draw what they see, they will all be different. I love the thought that the way we display the child’s work will make a child feel that their work is valued, I will be thinking about this when displaying the work. It’s not about it being pretty; it’s about making a child feel valued! It is easy to see that adults can interfere when an art activity is not going the way they planned. I personally hate it when someone tells you what would look good, when I put it the way I wanted it. As adults we can usually tell the difference between constructive criticism and just plain criticism, but children can’t differentiate and it is so important not to stop them trying all together. 219 words Cathy Bolton
Aimee’s review on Porter (2003) is another subject that interests us all as teachers. The three reviews that I have done are directly related to moral issues. Guidance in behavior, praise, and how to encourage children to develop their creativity. While I would like to think that I do not use the controlling style, this is the hardest to try to not do with other children usually involved. Who hasn’t told a child to stop hitting the other children; some things have to be stopped NOW, before any real damage is done. This is NOT the area I want to be a controller and I hope to develop fully in this area over the next three years, so that I know how to encourage children to behave in an acceptable manner. I will definitely be getting this book and having a good study as I really would love to help children become responsible members in society. We have a child in our centre that is threatening other children. He’s quite intimidating. I would really like to figure out how to help him stop this behavior, but we try all sorts and so far no luck. He’s off to school soon, so I feel like we’ve failed somehow. Strangest thing is he’s a nice child really. 215 words Cathy Bolton
Review of The Discovery of Early Childhood (May, 1997) by Liz Reedy. The above book is one of the required books for the course. Upon reading the book you can understand why. I agree with Liz that by reading the book it gives you a greater understanding of how far the work in early childhood has come. By looking back at the different theorists, some of whom are still influential today and others who have been discredited you begin to understand just how amazing it is that we have the curriculum we have today as well as the understanding that it is and always will be a work in progress. It shows how political education has always been and how it has evolved at times to meet a purely political agenda. The book introduces educators such as Maria Montessori whose theories have been influential in New Zealand since 1913 and still are today. The book overall is a great source of history detailing the evolution of an early childhood curriculum within the early childhood sector in New Zealand and worldwide.
Paula Rudd
Sara Beazley
The review of Porter (1998) by Rhonda Warner is a great book to look to when trying to get into the mindset of a child. Rhonda's review of the book touches on the different methods of effective observation when looking at a child play and the theorists that have helped to shape our curriculum today. It also talks about how different stages of learning effect children at different times. She has also shown that the book has incorporated Maori beliefs and Te Whariki in it's writing. I feel this is a great to book read to look to as students as it talks about a lot of subjects that we will need to learn about in the next three years. I also find this book intriguing, as it doesn't just tell you about the child, but also how to better yourself as a parent or teacher. I will definitely be reading this book in the future and I believe that it will be extremely helpful in our study.
(Word Count: 168)
Sara Beazley
In the review of Brownlee (2004) Rose goes into detail about the importance of allowing a child's creativity to flow when using their imagination. I find it interesting how Rose talks about it is necessary to let the child make their own decisions and how if we as adults interfere it can stunt their creative development. As a parent I am always interfering with my daughters painting, telling her what colours to use and to use all the white space up on the paper. Her suggestion of support and encouragement towards the child's creative work is a great suggestion to both include the adult in the child's work and encourage the child to be more creative in their thinking. I think Rose's review is very interesting and I will definitely be reading this book very soon.
(Word Count: 136)
In the review of “Play and pedagogy in early childhood” bending the rules. By Anjani Prakash. She focusis on analysing play and the adults role in children's play. It would be great to know that when you are involved in a group of children's play that your are fulling their minds with meaningfull knowledge. I think I would enjoy reading these chapters as I always like to get involved in children's play and it would help to read up on if im doing it the right way and it sounds like a worth while read concidering what Anjani said about how it helped her. After reading the chapter she feels she can interact with children more wisley. There for an effective read it is. And I believe that the children are to be in control of there own play. Word count 143 Paula Bacon
In the rewiew of the book called Contemporary perspectives on socialisation and social development in early childhood education. By Nimleesh. She talk about and qoutes Ladd (2007) In how children can learn from their peers in some areas where they can't learn from others. I have seen this happen in my centre, by children watching how other children would do something and simply copying them. An example from my experience a child won't hold a prayingmantis until hes seen another child hold it first. Even though I had told him you can hold it. It won't hurt you. I would love to read this chapter as I think it sounds very interesting and helpful for any learing teacher in ECE. Word count 110 Paula Bacon
Robin’s review of Tan, C.(1996) The Brilliance and the Ordinary. In Teach Your Children Well. (pp. 42-50). Wellington: GP Print, had me agreeing, disagreeing and questioning my “common sense beliefs” about the way we learn. I do not know if I agree with his belief that “no one person is smarter than the other”, or is the element that causes a person to be smarter, the fact that they had better learning opportunities from a young age? I look at young children and some definitely learn quicker than others. Do we take this as being a sign that that child is more intelligent? And why is that child learning at a faster rate from others? I can see one of the answers to this being that learning strategies may need to be customised to the needs of the child. As we all have different interests and likes and dislikes this must surely be a fundamental reason why peoples strengths and weaknesses differ. If we are to encourage children to form a love of subjects they had never experienced before I feel the key must lie in capturing them at a young age. Sue David
Word count 192
I have chosen Rhonda’s review of Penrose, P. (1998). Take Another Look Tirohia Anō: A guide to observing children He momo ārahi ki te tiro i ngā tamariki . (2nd ed.). Auckland: New Zealand Playcentre Federation., as I believe this book will help me answer some of the questions I raised from Robin’s review. If, from our different methods of observation we understand how the child learns then hopefully we are in a better position to customise the curriculum to their needs. This may mean that one method may not suit all and that we are required to be more creative and resourceful in our techniques. From the review I understand that the breaking down of different areas of play gives the educator the opportunity to cater for many learning capabilities therefore creating a more level learning platform.
I would like to read more of this book as I believe I could learn plenty from it in the way of observations and teaching strategies. Sue David
Word count 164
Paula’s review on Kei Tau o te pae i: Assessment for learning: Early childhood Exemplars by The Ministry of Education (2007) is valid because it discusses assessment in early childhood education, it is important to acknowledge the stories of a child’s journey in a centre and to know where we are in a learning sense. I believe it is also important to use these experiences and apply them towards the future. This benefits the community by valuing the ways in which our children learn and to help encourage diverse learning pathways. In this reference it also refers to Te Whariki and its principles which should also be acknowledged in all teaching practices. I believe this resource is valuable because it can help teachers reflect on the different ways of learning to better themselves and their skills to make a positive difference to children’s development in the present and in the future. I think this reference could be beneficial to all early childhood educators.
162 Words
Nicole Wheat
Maia’s review of Taking Control by The ministry of Education (2009) is interesting because it sounds quite threatening when she says ‘Take Control’ but when applied in a situation where a child’s behaviour might be harmful towards themselves or others it sounds reasonable. The relevance to this reference is that there are many strategies in which we should consider as teachers to use in difficult situations. In these strategies it gives examples of such situations and how to achieve positive results through giving goals and successful actions, which are referred to in Te Whariki. It also discusses different methods like ‘time out’ which is now being replaced by ‘inclusionary time out’ and ‘cool down time’. I’m not sure I agree with some of these strategies or methods but despite this, the reference has been insightful in a number of ways.
139 Words
Nicole Wheat
In the review of Gerber, M. (2002). Praise or acknowledgment (2nd ed) J. Weaver (Ed.). Dear parent : Caring for infants with respect by Magda Gerber . Los Angeles, California: Resources for Infant Educarers
Maia Thompson discusses the relevance of this reading for us as teachers to use in our work. I can relate to what Maia finds important in this chapter, Gerber (2002) talks about the importance of praise or acknowledgment and how to do this effectively in the early childhood setting. In this chapter it also highlights what Gerber (2002) believes, that when you praise the child over the action the child may think he/she is bad if he does not achieve success. I understand what this review is pointing out and believe that it is very imported for us to try and not use these "good girl" and "bad boy" terms in our everyday practice, here it also begins to explain how and why you should praise your child and how we can integrate this into our work.
I would like to read more of Gerber's work, i think his approach would become really helpfully and would have some good insights into how i can become a better teacher.
Patricia Kendrick
Word count 203
In the review Kinney, L., & Wharton, P.(2008) Jesse talks about children taking part in the decisions about their learning. He also talks about the whole whanau taking part in the child's learning and development. In my work experience centre an activity that involves teachers, whanau and the child takes place. Every two months the teachers set a goal as to what they want the child to work on, the parents tell the teachers what area they want their child to develop in, and the child also tells the teachers what they want to learn at the centre. This policy is an example of children and whanau taking part in the child's learning. The whanau and child are highly encouraged to have their input as to what activies may be effective to accomplish the goals. Their contribution to the learning activies are greatly appreciated by everyone involved. Jesse stated children have the right to be heard, I agree and can relate to this due to the effectiveness of my work experience activity. I think this book would be benificial to read to develop more ways on how to involve the child and family in learning decisions.
196 words
Nicole.Korff In the review Brownlee, Pennie (2004) Rose talks about how important it is to let a child be creative and decide on what it is they want to create by using their own imagination. Every individual child has the ability or can learn the skill of being creative. In my work experience centre we follow through with this aspect of childrens development and the children can express their own ideas into all activies they choose to do. Rose also talks about the importance of talking to the child about what they have created and giving praise to them. I think this works well as the child can see the interest that is shown to their artwork etc. At my work experience centre a child drew around a stencil of a cow, I noticed she had drawn something on the legs and the neck of the animals so I asked her what they were. They were bracelets and a necklace she had drawn on her animals.I thought that was so creative. I showed an interest in her artwork and praised her for the beauty of her animals and the jewellery they wore. The outcome was she walked away feeling proud of her work. I would definitely be interested in reading this book to find out what good questions can be asked when talking to a child about their work.
228 words
Nicole.Korff
Nicole’s review of MacNaughton & Williams (2000), describing how teachers can Model desirable behavior either verbally or non-verbally certainly has every day application. I was just reading a chapter in the book, that I’ve reviewed. It discusses the subject of teachers as behavior models. I thought about how important it is to be attentive in the way we address children, and as Nicole said in her review, remembering to say “thank you” and acknowledging their efforts, when they try to implement positive social behavior. We can use “modeling” to teach values such as empathy, respect, and appreciation in the way we speak and behave towards each child. As Nicole said, children imitate and copy the behavior of others, and that is how they learn. I like the example of modeling non-verbal behavior in the sand-pit. I think this book would be a useful resource to own or refer to, in my teaching practice. (153 words)
Michelle Johnson
Maia’s review of Gerber (2002) raises questions for me about how I praise and acknowledge certain behaviour. The point of using acknowledgement to “broadcast” a child’s actions is certainly interesting. It occurred to me that only 20 years ago, if you used this technique in a teaching setting, you would be considered very odd indeed! However we now know that one of the many ways that children learn is when an adult verbally reinforces achievements. I’m not sure that I agree with the theory that when we say “good girl” or “good boy” that the child is getting the message that they’re not being good if they don’t achieve success the rest of the time. However I believe that we can over-praise and when we do, the praise loses impact.Lastly in Maia’s review of Gerber (2002) I think another important aspect to note is that by emphasizing positive behavior, we are giving the child our full attention. I would be interested to read more of what Gerber has to say on this topic. (174 words)
Michelle Johnson
Review 1:
In the review the importance of brain development, Sara talks about the very important role that the teacher plays in an infant’s life. She discusses that although we ‘don’t always grasp the scientific language of the brain’ it is still very important to provide a firm foundation for the child in their early years. I found this article very informing, I was never aware that an experience such as high levels of stress, could often cause death of neurons in a babies brain resulting in hindered brain development. I think this is a very important point to consider. When we are teaching it has become clear that repetition of good experiences and interactions will do wonders for the child’s development, however, it is our responsibility to make sure that negative experiences do not make their way into our class room, because if repeated, the child’s development will end up suffering severely. This is not only something we want to avoid as teachers, but also as parents and other caregivers of our children. I found this article enlightening, it explained the way the brain works with a simple and understandable language.
Word Count: 190
Review 2:
In the review on taking control Maia talks about the different behavioral strategies that can be used with children of different ages within an early childhood centre. I found some of the strategies in this article very useful, and feel they will become beneficial for me when I am working in a centre. In the first paragraph they discussed the theory of avoiding the words “no” and “do not” when disciplining. They do this to prevent the use of negative feedback when working with the children. They advise using sentences such as “gentle hands” “nice words please”, insuring the positive behavior is not only noticed, but focused on. This article was helpful in relation to discipline. It provided important information, followed up with well explained examples.
Word Count: 126
Robin Clark
In the review of Apprenticeship approach and Becoming a writer, pages 60-61 Jay outlines and describes how children learn to read and write. A popular approach to help children develop the skills they need, the apprenticeship approach. The children are active partners in the reading process with the support of adults, this was felt to be more productive. The writer explains that children no matter who they are or where they are from generally experience simular ways in which they deveop there literacy skills and experiences. It could be a baby using their fingers during meal times and making patterns in their food, or on the opposite end of the social scale children would use sticks to write and draw on the dirt. The article has given me an idea about how there is not one right or wrong way for children to learn, there is not one single solution. Educators recognise that a combination of methods to address the different learning styles of children.
Word count:165 Tori Sefuiva
Carly's review of Walk in their shoes:A day in the school life of an spld student, it outlines and describes different types of learning disorders but explains more about Aspergers syndrome. It offers the point of view of a child on how it is to have this type of disorder. With early childhood centres mainly being the first in a child's education it is important for teachers to develop their understanding in the learning difficulties that children may live with.
I feel that it was a great review and will be a very important part of our teaching as we may have to deal with a child that has a certain SPLD. I need to be aware and understanding of a child with SPLD and be able to help with their education in the best way possible. I hope to expand on my knowlegde with special needs within my three years of training and experiences.
Word count:155 Tori Sefuiva
In the review of Tan, C. [1996] Robin discusses the optimum environment for all learners, whatever their learning abilities. I found this chapter very interesting as it re-affirmed my own ideas on the role of support we play in helping children learn. I know that it is not necessarily beneficial to be goal orientated, and I personally think it is important to learn from a love of learning, and not necessarily in a competitive way. As Tan says ,‘Intelligence and later achievement are far from perfectly correlated’. This approach can take the pressure off and more learning can often result. The secret to the method of this teaching seems to be our positive attitude and buckets of patience! I also agree that creative skills are not considered to be important skills in children’s education. As a mother of a ‘non-academically focused’ child I beg to differ from that view. I think all children’s skills should be valued as this builds confidence which will aid further learning in all areas.
I would like to read more of Tan’s work, as I feel it really challenges a lot of pre-conceptions we may have, and give us valuable insight into learning styles. I definitely think it is worth a read!
Merrilee de Simas 212 words
In the review of Eliason, C., & Jenkins, L. [1999], Noriko discusses the many aspects of the young child’s learning process. She talks about how the children learn in a very interactive and sensory way, through communication, questioning and real life experiences. I found this reading very interesting and some of the incidences of children’s miscommunication gave me a bit of a giggle! It really re-affirmed for me why I love teaching young children; to be able to contribute to preserving and fostering a child’s perspective, and to be a part of the awe that they feel as they discover their world is a privilege. I liked the way this reading was very “down to earth” and talked about the importance of spontaneous learning; not everything has to be planned and structured. It really struck a chord with me in the reading when I came across this comment; ‘A new discovery at any age should stimulate an intrinsic sense of fulfillment within oneself.’
I wholeheartedly agree and would definitely like to read more of these authors work. By Merrilee de Simas 180 words
Ministry of Education. (2007). Kei Tua o te pae i: Assessment for Learning: Early Childhood Exemplars. Wellington: Learning Media.
I am responding to Paula Rudd on Assessment for learning: Early childhood exemplars. I found that the learning stories and examples in the 20 books I browsed over are extremely interesting and we can all learn quite a bit from them. They not only show us how to link our learning stories to Te Whariki but also an idea on what to put into them, whether it be creativity or ideas for learning. It shows how to take it to the next level when we think about what next, how to expand on their learning next. For myself I found including and or recognising other cultures in the centre the most interesting because I find it hard to know what is ok and what is not ok when relating to other cultures I am not familiar with.
Jaime' Oosthuizen
word count:156
Siale Palanite
I have read some of Piaget's theory as Cathy Bolton described in her review and found the information helpful. What attracts my attention are the four stages of cognitive development. Understanding the differences between these stages could help me identify the level in which the children may want to develop. Piaget also indicated to teach information that the child can absorb rather than introducing in formation that is beyond their capability to understand. This statement is very interesting and it reminds me a story that was told by a friend. She said that her daughter always complaint about her three months old baby being unhappy when she was about to feed him. She just found out later that her daughter used to feed him with food that is not appropriate for the baby's tummy or the baby's tummy can not absorb. Babies have certain food according to their age. Giving them food which their system do not digest would harm their system This event applies to Piaget's statement. This theory is one of the sources that suggests lots of information that would guide me with my journey in early childhood education.
word count: 175
Paula Bacon's review of Brownlee, P. (2004) Magic Places: Young children's creative artwork, I found particularly interesting as I did not feel completely comfortable with the idea of children learning to colour with the use of colouring books. It suggests to me that there is too much emphasis on a 'right or wrong' way of doing things. Being creative should be about a child's expression, so for instance a child may draw a series of continual circles and then describe it as a train track or a spider's web, without the confines of what it is meant to be. However, in saying that some children may enjoy a more structured form. The chapter also talks about the use of colours and the knowledge children gather from learning about colours. I find that children generally like to mix colours together and as they become more developed, they then tend to differentiate between the range of colours.
Although I did not fully agree with the author's viewpoint, I would still be interested in reading the rest of book. Brownlee (2004) may have some research to back her ideas, that could be useful for teachers.
Fal'e Davey
Word count: 190
In the review of Dockett, S., & Fleet, M. (1999). Play and pedagogy in early childhood: bending the rules, Anjani Prakash talks about the role of adults interacting in child's play and games. The importance of adults 'supporting, encouraging, and guiding' children's learning. I believe it is imperitive that teachers allow children the space to take a lead in their learning through play or games. The teacher's role is to support that learning with knowledge and resources to extend a child's experience. I believe it is also important to stand back and allow children to make choices and decisions for themselves and only when they require adult intervention, then the teacher can assist.
Anjani made a link between her practice and the author's observations of children in play. I look forward to reading this book, as I think that it will be helpful in building our knowledge around play and pedagogy in an early childhood setting.
Fal'e Davey
Word count: 162
In the book by Goodchild, R. (2004). "Teaching children the joy of reading” (2nd ed.) Michelle talks about the importance of reading and how to encourage the joy of reading to children. I agree when Michelle discuss how reading has a positive impact on the child’s learning. Michelle goes on to discuss how it helps the child in every area of the curriculum. It helps to give parents advise on getting children to say words in the right context. Reading for any child yet along ones that are 2 – 5! Reading should be made enjoying and fun, something for the child to look forward to. I agree that parents need to relate what they child is reading to daily life. I agree that getting children to read from an early age helps them with there vocabulary and it differently helps the child to enhance of their understanding of words. Overall I think this is an excellent book for both parents and teachers, to try and make reading fun for the children, make is something that they can look forward to so they can keep reading all through school.
Jesse Greenslade Word Count 184
In the book by Porter, L. (2003). “Young children’s Behavior" Aimee discusses a certain chapter about discipline. Aimee discusses two approaches to discipline; both styles are outlined and demonstrated with the guidance reproach being more affective. I agree when she talks about when rewards being used it gives the child the impression that the educator is the boss. The educator may appear to be controlling from the child’s point of view. The guidance approach is discussed and the approach is where the child is taught to direct their own actions and from this the educators assume the role of a leader. It talks about children usually take risks, as children get enjoyment from their inappropriate behavior. She discusses that the guidance approach is valuable tool to assist children to focus on their behavior. Overall this book will be a valuable read for all of us as we all work with children. Knowing different ways of dealing with behaviors is such an advantage, as teachers and I believe it will be hugely beneficial for us to have ways to deal with it.
Jesse Greenslade 179
Michelle Smith
In the review of "Why be a reflective practitioner", Merrilee talks about how important it is to reflect on an event to find ways of how we could make improvements on our teaching styles. I always wondered why reflections were a part of our studies but after reading this chapter, I have a greater understanding of the purpose of reflecting on events that happen in our centres. By choosing not to reflect we are not willing to be open to change and therefore will keep teaching the way we always have. I feel that reflections are a huge asset to qualified and training teachers, like myself, as they will help us to identify things that we can change in the way we teach and make our teaching experiences more rewarding and enjoyable. 128 words
In the review of "The discovery of early childhood. step 5. p.107-108"Liz talks about how Maria Montessori's method was one of many other theories that helped to reform the early childhood curriculum in the tweentieth century. By reading this step in the book it has really encouraged me to want to read more. I feel that it is very valuable in my role of becoming an early childhood educator to know the history of where the early childhood curriculum has come from and who was involved in the making of it. 92words
Chelsea Buchanan In this book ‘Magic Places: Young children’s creative artwork’ Paula talks about how children learn in a creative and unique process and that is ‘art’. As a teacher I think it is important to be open to new ideas and practical exercises which could be used for a child’s development and learning. I found it interesting how the book described the different benefits and accomplishments, which can come from one little piece of artwork. Like Paula describes how a child can work with different colors and can mix the colors together to make a particular shade. I also think it is important to implement art work in a child’s curriculum as it boosts there imagination and opens up their own creative, colorful and unique minds.
Word Count: 125
In this book 'Integrated learning’ Sue talks about the aspects of how gardening can be a joyful and beneficial learning experience for the children. I agree that the gardening process is very economical and a resourceful way of helping children and their learning. Like Sue describes that they learn mathematical skills, science and the wonder of nature. Each child will be able to see what the plant needs to grow and working as a collaborative team can participate in the joyous process of gardening. I also think it is with an added advantage that you are teaching with a natural renewable resource.
Word Count: 102
Kushla Browne
I found that Maia’s review Gerber, M. (2002). Praise and acknowledgement is very interesting. I am very interested in gathering more information on this book and using the techniques. This makes me think just like many others, am I giving the right type of praise and acknowledgement or am I going about it all wrong at the moment?. It explains how Gerber prefers acknowledgment as opposed to rewards, I strongly agree with this. Explaining how a smile creates just as much or more excitement for an infant as opposed to being given a reward makes me realise even more than before, how important it is to be giving the right acknowledgement. Thank you Maia for your review, look forward to reading the book.
123 words
2. In regards to Mandy’s review of Ka’ai, T., Moorfield, J., Reilly, M., & Mosley,S.(2004). I also have reviewed parts to this book. I am finding it very interesting in learning the ways in which Maori choose to educate children. I find that this opens my mind to other ways of teaching and also makes me think in furthering my Maori language in order to speak fluently. I never imagined that I would be interested in teaching in a Te Kohanga Reo until reading this book and realising that a lot of the ways in which they work appeals to me.
100 Words
I too am referring to the review of Eliason, C., & Jenkins, L. [1999, I find that Noriko couldn’t have chosen a more interesting source to review. I love the fact that children do not just learn in one particular way. Everyday in the early childhood centre you will find a child learning in a totally different way to another. When they learn I at the same time learn too. Being a part of a child’s learning experience is the most rewarding thing for myself. When reading this the main thing that kept coming into mind was the common saying “no child is the same” whether it be cultural differences or in this case the way they learn. I loved this reading and fully agree with what has been said. I can definitely keep this in mind with my teaching experience Jaime' Oosthuizen word count: 141
In the review of Gerber, M.(2002) Praise or acknowledgment, I found that this was a interesting reading as it made me think of the negative views of praising a child. I had never thought that praising or acknowledging a child’s actions can cause a child to think that when he/she is not acting in this same way that he/she is being bad. This is something that I will have to take into account in my own practice when I praise a child. Also in this reading it highlights the criteria for praise. I found this interesting as it states that you should not praise a child that is happily playing or a child that is performing for an adult. I would usually praise that child but this reading made me rethink and question how I praise a child and wheather my praise is actually needed by that child. For example if a child is happily playing would my praise interfere with their play or would it change what the child is thinking. I would like to find out more about Gerber, M. and her theories about praising a child also any other readings regarding praising a child. This will definitely help me with my teaching practice and also at home with my little brother.
word count:214
Suria Iuvale
I have gone through the review of Saile Palanite on Piaget theory reviewed by Cathy Bolton. I totally agree with the review of the writer but would like to add that in spite of the critique of Piaget theory it is an admitted fact that Piaget’s work has been the major theoretical component of introductory books in child development for so many years. According to Piaget the learning is subordinate to development, which he approaches from a biological perspective. Piaget mostly based his theory on the progressive changes in behaviour and thinking that children pass through at different stages in their development. Piaget main interest was in the structure of intellect. He defined structures as the main underlying organisational properties of intelligence which determine that behaviour will be. word count.128 Nadia KhanLiz Reedy When looking at the review On Reflection (pp15) Building from a useful foundation. I agree with Milly that it is an interesting read. This part of the book shows two learning models and how they have changed from 1960’s through to the 1990’s the leaning model which was used at that time from the piagetian model.Which let children have a free learning environment also it showed that the educators intervention was minimal, which made them more of a resource and not so influential. When they discovered Vygotsk’s model of learning which come from a social cultural perspective. He believed that personal experience has a big part to play in a child’s learning. I also agree with Milly when she explains that, through children having different learning experiences with different educators, helps create a child’s understanding. Word count: 137 Danielle Booth Looking at Anita Jacobs review on social learning in the peer context i became interested as it changed my point of view or way of thinking. i had never really thought of children learning more off other children their age rather than their parents or teachers. But after reading this review it made sense to me that this would be the case, because as it states, children around the same age will have simurlar interests and play along each other with a simurlar thought pattern. I also found myself interested in Sue Davids review on intergrated learning as I have done gardening activities with the children in the centre i do my hours with, but I had never thought of doing the learning stategies suggested.
In the review of Gerber (2002) Maia discusses about the importance of praise or acknowledgment and how to do this effectively in the early childhood setting. I found this reading very interesting and useful. It helps me to think praise in different perspective and reflect myself on how have I praise the children. I did use “good body” or “good girl” in inappropriate way in the past. I had never thought that praise the children in this way might confuse children or bring bad affect on them. This reading has helped me to develop and improve my teaching practice on how to praise and acknowledgment the children.
Penny Lin
Word count: 107
In the review of Tan (1996) Robin discusses about the author’s theories and ideas that has established on teaching math’s to young children. I agree with author’s belief that no-one person is smarter than others. Also, the pushy and pressuring parents can have bad impact on their children. Author’s concepts are useful for the teaching practice especially, he (1996) states that “a good way to start teaching a child is to actually believe in their progress, develop and acquire skills” (p. 51). I agree with Robin that this reading is interesting and understandable to read. I would like read the full book in the future.
Penny Lin
Word count: 105
Messina LarsenIn the review of Ki Te Whaiao:An introduction to Maori culture and society Mandy discusses the importance of children learning together as ‘whanau’ and also the use of Te Kohanga Reo. She mentions some of the virtues learned from children working together which is also important to know. I believe as teachers we need to learn, or take on a more bi-cultural approach to our practices and we can begin this by accepting the heritage of Aotearoa and then following it through to teach younger generations to come. I would like to learn as much as I can about the Maori culture and heritage as I find it interesting, and by reading this book further I believe it will give me a good start to my understanding as I try to start the process of incorporating it into my teaching. 135 words Messina Larsen The review from Magic Places: Young children’s creative artwork (pages 21-30), done by Rose had a lot of relevance and thought to the approaches of teaching. We need to learn the boundaries of interfering in a child’s learning and know where and when to leave them to express their own creative sides. I think this review is important as there are many teachers out there that do not respect and encourage children in such ways when it is critical to do so. I think this review relates to me as I do try and encourage children as best as possible but there is always more I can learn in the way of reinforcing it in everyday practice. 117 words
*
Anjani Prakash
Referring to Maia Thompson's reference to Gerber books Praise or acknowledgment and Dear parent: Caring for infants with respect and reading through both attachments, I found it all very informative and related to what we are learning and trying to teach. As beginners to early childhood education, it gives us all an insight to importance of all acknowledgements, both verbal and non-verbal. It informs us all how to communicate effectively and efficiently. In this review by T J Tuaiti and book Possibilities for partnership: empowering parents to Participate by Keesing Styles, he emphases partnership and achieving this to help all for better communication and education. As student teachers, this book guides us how to approach and access situations and build better relationships with everyone, especially parents.
In the review of Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development. (2006). Learning Begets Learning. Starting Strong II Early Childcare Education. Sara Beasley discuses the importance of pages 37-38, about the economic value of early childcare centres in society. The chapter describes early education as being of “major importance” and states that it increases the productivity of the next stage in education. In turn putting a baby into childcare does not just affect the child in the long run but also the family. I think as student teaching this book could become useful because if we didn't believe in this why would we becoming teachers?.
I would like to read more of this book as i feel that it could have a different view as mine and offer some insight into how to become a better teacher.
Trisha Kendrick
Word count 142
In the review Brownlee (2004) Rose suggests that it is very necessary for children to be capable in deciding what activities they want to do instead of teachers choosing for children. Encouraging children to achieve a piece of art work is important as it could improve their confidence and independence. In the early childhood centre I work at they would prefer children to choose the activities for the day, I think this gives them opportunities to show teachers and whanau that they can be independent in making their own decisions in doing so I believe they become more confident in their everyday decisions. I believe that if teachers let children make their own decisions into what activity they would rather play with, you would see the different personalities how they react differently to each activity. I observed their flair and how they develop with their creativity in their participation.
Word count: 149
In review of Ladd (2007) this chapter, Social Learning in the Peer Context, pages 133 – 164 explains the how children are able learn better with their peers rather than from their teachers, parents and siblings. Ladd (2007) also suggests that children have different stages of learning which impacts on what they learn and how they are learning it. I totally agree with this as I see children all the time learning from their friends and what their friends are doing even if one may feel awkward from getting involved in certain activities. I have seen a young girl climb up a tree while her friend waited at the bottom as she was not very competent with heights up. I think most children interact better with their own age group and gender as they have similar interests like at the centre im working at I see girls playing with girls and boys playing with boys most the time. Children do learn from adults by doing things that adults do but they find it more exciting when they put it into practice with their own peers. I think that children like to interact with other children that are in the same learning stage as them as they find it easier to communicate and choose activities together where as if a child that
Word count: 220
Chanel Dwyer
In the review Gerber, M. (2002). Maia discusses a chapter reguarding the importance of praise and acknowledgement towards children. I think that this is very relevant to my teaching as I am sometimes uncertain on what to praise children on. Children are so often getting told off that when acknowledging positive behaviour it is so important that they know what they did and why they are getting acknowledged for it. Gerbers approach is very good at letting the children know and suits my centres philosophy. Reading this chapter, Gerber has given me more confidence on when and why children should be praised and acknowledged,I also hope to put it into practice and be able to praise and acknowledge children in the best
effective way possible.
Abby Pine Word count: 126
In the review of Starbucks, S., Olthaf, M. & Midden, K. (2002). Sue discusses the opportunities gardening creates for children. I was fascinated by how gardening cannot only be a fun activity for children but can also teach children math’s, science and even reading/writing if you incorporate it in the activity which in reading this chapter explained how. I think doing activities such as gardening are so important for children because it lets them explore and find out what interests them as well as teaches children basic skills. I found this a great read and am encouraged to give children a gardening experience.
Abby Pine Word count: 103
In the review of Brownlee (2004), Paula talked about how children learn by colouring in activities. By watching my own children growing up I have had the chance to view this first hand. It’s amazing how they advance from just mixing all the colours together to mixing a few colours then to adding lots of colours. I have found this book very useful and informative and this has given me a new view on the way children look at life. Les Queenin Word count: 80
I found the review of Ladd (2007) by Anita very interesting as she talked about how children learn more from watching each other then from their parents. I’d noticed that our daughter had excelled purely from having one on one time with her older brother, watching him constantly and wanting to do everything that he could do. I will have to have a look at this book because it sounds very informative and will help me advance as a teacher. Les Queenin Word count: 80
Source 1:
In the review Dryden,L, Forbes, R,Mukherjee,P.& Pound,L.(2007). Essential early years. London: Hodder Arnold. Jay Joshi had clearly pointed out two major sections of the book, which I had found very true and thought that it is one of the effective ways of helping a child learn how to read is with a supportive buddy. Reading the more defined description of when children scribble as part of their very first drawings, I got more of an understanding as to why and how it is important. But this is something I would really like to try and understand more in the future with my own practice as an early childhood teacher. Kia ora Jay Joshi.
Word count:115
Caroline Malaesilia
Source 2:
In the review Ramage, R.(1997). Every child is a gifted Child: strategies for raising young children today. Christchurch: Kea Press. Abby discusses the importance of having whanau involvement is for the child’s learning. Giving our children the support and encouragement in their learning when they have achieved something. This plays a great part in the child’s learning, I believe if you show interests in the child’s activities it will encourage the child to enjoy themselves in their own learning, and gives them the boost of confidence in their work. I really enjoyed reading this book because it’s exactly the way I would want to help children learn as a teacher my self, especially on wanting to be on the same level as the child, so that the child can feel comfortable and is able to have their learning in a fun and respectable environment. So thanks Abby.
Word count:149
Caroline Malaesilia
By Caroline Malaesilia
Noriko Asada
1. In the review of Ministry of Education(2002),Sara discusses the significance of brain development in infancy. I have read the article from the website and I found that was extremely attractive and amazing issue for our practice. Educators should concern the brain development in the early years and offer the appropriate activities for children. I have never thought about the reason why we have mat-time in daily routines in the kindergarten, however after I had studied the case I believe that there is an interesting relationship between mat-time and brain growth such as music, motor skill development by dancing and language learning.
Actually I could not understand the example that Sara puts in the review, so I will ask her to explain to me. I have printed out the issue to keep it for myself as a useful knowledge to improve my teaching practice to be more effective to children.
(149 words)
2. Nimlesh discusses in a chapter from Techniques for Teaching young children by MacNaughton & Williams (2004) on difference between encouraging, praising and helping children. I thought encouraging and praising are similar words however the authors clearly illustrate the dissimilarity of two. For example the time difference among encouraging and praising is encouraging children while doing something and praising after children have achieved what they have done. The article gives me a comprehensible vision of two words and made me think more deeply.
In addition, I am totally agree with Nimlesh about the way of helping and supporting children to increase their motivation to accomplish their goals and give confidence to children’s abilities and skills.
(114 words)
MARYANN AREI
In the review of Anderson, Lynne. (2008). Liam’s Story: The musical journey of a young boy. The First Years; Nga TauTuatahi, New Zealand Journal of Infant and Toddler Education. Volume 10, Issue 2, 2008. Kushla talks about how the use of music helped and developed the interaction between the young boy Liam and his family. She also highlights how music help develop the hearing senses of a foetus as stated in the article. I found this article quite interesting as it also relates to my findings where ‘a child’s first experience of a consistent sound is the thud of his mothers heartbeat while in the womb’ Bayley, R. Broadbent, L. (2005). The article also talks about how music can be use as a link not only between the child and family but also with the teacher. This idea is reinforced in the interaction used to understand the child’s life as stated in Kushla’s review. I found this article interesting to read because it helped me understand as a student teacher that music can also be used as a learning instrument.
Source 1
In Paula Bacons review of Brownlee, P (2004) Magic Places: young children’s creative artwork. I agree with Fal’e Davey, that children should not be just coloring and cutting cut outs made by an adult. Because I believe children master their own ideas through free choice of coloring and cutting. They can not develop their own learning if they are made to do things the right way. Children will pick up skills of cutting and coloring in their own time. I do agree that it helps with muscular control. But I feel that coloring and cutting out an adults work, is not really the work of a child.
T.J. Tuaiti
109 words
Source 2
I think that what Ramage (1997), has to say about teachers supporting children’s learning is an area that has interested me. He refers to “supporting them as they teach themselves”. Children learn through experimenting and exploring, by using their senses they learn to make sense of their world around them. My mum let my son taste dirt when he was a baby, she said that he will soon realize he doesn’t like the taste and will stop. He made that decision on his own, that is what Ramage is explaining and has helped me to understand what she did and why? So thanks to Abbey Pine’s review I have been able to understand and learnt something new.
T.J. Tuaiti
121 words
MARYANN AREI 2nd Source Review: In the review of Gerber, M. (2002). Praise or acknowledgment (2nd ed.). In J. Weaver (Ed.), Dear parent: Caring for infants with respectbyMagda Gerber. (pp. 117-118). Maia elaborates on how as adults we often acknowledge children when they have completed a task in the way we expected them to. Although by reading this chapter I am in agreement with Maia in which she reinforces the idea of Gerber (2002) and that is when we praise a child for their achievement we are giving them the idea that if they did not achieve what is to be expected they would not reap the same praise from us. Thus highlighting the idea of acknowledgement as reinforced by Gerber(2009) where she suggest that we should try and acknowledge a child in everything they do rather than praise. I found this chapter quite useful as it teachers me the different in praise and acknowledgement, and as teachers it would be useful to know the difference. Kia ora Maia !
(168 word count)
Liz Reedy In the review of Ki te Whaiao ( 2004). Which points out the reason of publishing ki te whaiao and also the purpose of Te kohanga reo. They feel one of thee effective ways of getting more people speaking the maori language is through children. Te kohanga was also created to teach the tamariki that whanau is not just your parents and siblings, it also includes family/whanau community and caregivers which gives the child the sense of belonging. Some of the guidelines they enforce are: whanaungatanga, tuakana-teina and mana tangata which is extremely important. These have been highlighted to help maori people to have control over their own lives and to equip them to plan and organize their futures. I agree with many this is a great resource to help get a understanding of Te Kohanga reo and is also an eye opener into the maori language and tikanga seeing Te Whaariki is a bi-cultural document.
Word count: 154
In the review Gerber (2002) Maia discusses the importance of praise. I found this to be quite interesting and would like to do more reading on the subject as I feel it would benefit both me and the children, it would be good to learn how to praise children in a way that would have successful outcome, as in the child knowing exactly why they have been praised, what was it that they did to get acknowledged in such a positive way. Instead of using the usual ‘good boy/girl!’, it is far more effective if you elaborate and tell the child exactly what was so good, with appropriate tone of voice.
(Word Count: 110)
Carrol Bell
In the review Brownlee (2004) Rose talks about how it is important to let children make decisions for him or herself, without the interference of adults. This review was rather interesting as often I see adults making decisions for the child instead of letting the child. Whether it be what colours to use on a painting, what to draw or even what the child should play or build in a sandpit. I too have made ‘suggestions’ to children on what they should do, however at the time not realising it. After reading Rose’s review it has made me realise that I need to let the children make more decisions for themselves, encourage them to make more decisions in their play and learning.
(Word Count: 122)
Carrol Bell
In the review of Helen May (1997), I found this source not only relevant to the theme of teaching and learning in early childhood education, but also very interesting. As Liz discuses in her review, section two gives details on how the curriculum had developed following on from Froebel’s pedagogy and practice. Not only does it discuss the developing theories and practice but also those theories of a child’s development. New Zealand’s response at that time to all the new theories being introduced was not to adopt one but rather, to view a “broad range of perspective” of them all. I found it of great interest when reading the journey in which N.Z early childhood education has taken over these years, and now seeing the astonishing curriculum we have developed into today. All these great theorists including the works of Maria Montessori have made a contribution to the development of the current curriculum.
I feel that this book is very valuable to all New Zealand early childhood educators as it provides knowledge, and has gives understanding of the whakapapa (history) of early childhood in Aotearoa/New Zealand.
186 words Mandy McMaster
In the review of O’Connor & Diggins (2002) Merrilee talks on the importance of reflecting on your practice as an educator. When reading this chapter I have learnt that when educators chose to be a reflective practitioner, those actions are beneficial to both the educator as well as the learner. What really interest me in this reading was the idea that by reflecting our practice, we can see weather were responding to the needs of the child, and as I am new to early childhood teaching I think this is a great tool to use to better my practice.
Being lifelong learner there is always room for improvement and I believe this book on reflection can give educators very useful knowledge and skills to assist them throughout their teaching years.
129 words Mandy McMaster
In the review of importance of brain development I found this reading quite interesting as it gave me an insight to how a child’s brain develops and functions. From this reading I learnt the importance of nurturing and stimulating a child’s brain. It also explains how a child’s environment can affect a child’s brain development. Also how talking and singing with the child can stimulate the brain and help it to develop. As a teacher I have not really taken into account how the brain works and functions but after reading this I now know how I can incorporate this knowledge into my teaching and how important it is as this can help a child’s brain develop and grow.
Word count:119
Suria Iuvale
In the review Dockett , S .,& fleer ,M (1999) Anjani discusses about us as adults getting involved in a child's play ,this helps us to learn from children themselves and to improve on our weaknesses with the help of children. I agree with Anjani about how it helped her interact with children using more knowledge , like when this book discusses how we as adults are in a powerful position because we are the moulders of a child’s mind and the role models of their actions. If we as teachers use our initiative when educating children it will help improve our skills when dealing with positive and negative situations.
word count : 110
Cassandra Deane
In the review of Podmore, V. (2006) Chelsea talks about the information she found about observations in early childhood, She talked about the history of observation and why it was important in early childhood, she discussed how this chapter showed the step-by-step process of observation, I found this reading helpful because it gave me the information about observation in a context I could understand clearly, it helped me to understand the background history and where it developed , this reading helped me to reflect on how I observe children and why observing is so important when it comes to children and their learning.
Word count: 103 Cassandra Deane
In the review ‘The creative progress’ Rose talks about the importance of a child’s creative progress, and how we need to make sure that it is the child that makes decisions about their own work by using their imagination and that as teachers we do not interfere with that. I think that this is very important information to be aware of as teachers as the outcome as Rose said can potentially stunt the child’s creative development. I agree with Rose and this reading that it is important to show the child that their work is valued and respected. Talking to the child about their artwork and praising them I think is a great way to encourage their creative development. I also think that it is important to be aware of the questions that could make the child unsure about their creative work.
142 words.
Victoria Mattson
In the review Why be a reflective practitioner: Reflective practice for Early Childhood educators. Merrilee talks about the importance of learning about our teaching thorough the use of constrictive criticism. I also think that this is important in order to improve our teaching skill. I also believe that as teachers we need to be open minded it is an important aspect we need to be open to. I think this chapter is something that we should all read and take into consideration to help us all become better teachers. Like the chapter and Merrilee says, I think it is important that reflective practice is on-going and in order to develop and improve our style of teaching it is essential to look back and see things “in a different light” , and deepen our understanding. This is something that I have taken into consecration and am going to utilize to help me become the best teacher that I am capable of.
160 words.
Victoria Mattson
Paula’s review of Magic places:Young children's creative artwork. States that children will not use 'correct' colours until 'correct' colours becomes important to them, this is so true! I have noticed that within my centre, the younger children are seemingly happy with any colour they put to paper, whereas the older children are more selective.
Again with the older children, they seem to have a firmer grasp on the concept of colouring within the lines, due to more developed muscles in their hands, this is also very evident when using scissors and cutting out pictures.
The exploration of colours and textures is a beautiful thing to watch, I like to make as many mediums available to them as I can, with variation in materials comes more imaginative art work. It is amazing to see what they come up with!
(139)
Karmella Taylor
Anderson, Lynne. (2008). Liam’s Story: The musical journey of a young boy – this I can relate to! It was interesting to read that the first developed sense in the foetus is hearing, this really does reinforce how important music, sounds and even tone of voice are in the early stages of a child’s life.
Personally, I was humming Smoke on the water (Deep Purple) before I learned to talk. This may seem strange, though not in my living situation. As a baby I was exposed to bands who would come and perform at our place, and quickly became passionate about music. Music is not everyone’s passion, but I can see how it can largely influence moods and encourage interaction and understanding within a family or group.
(126)
Karmella Taylor
Aimee has reviewed “Young children’s behaviour” by Porter (2003). Porter goes through two different ways of disciplining a child, the Controlling and Guidance methods. This interests me as I have been a nanny and have used the control style often used by parents. So I am interested in learning about the guidance style and how I could use that in my role as a teacher. I feel this book could be a valuable read to further myself as a teacher.
As a nanny I frequently use the control style i.e. rewards and punishment. Depending on the family I have more freedom to reward or punish children, giving a concept of consequences for actions. In a centre I have less freedom to punish children; therefore researching different methods of leadership (i.e. the guidance method) will benefit me in my teaching practice, providing me with new ideas and methods of interacting with children.
151 Words Rose Adams
Rhonda has reviewed Take Another Look Tirohia Anō: A guide to observing children He momo ārahi ki te tiro i ngā tamariki by Penrose, P. (1998). Penrose talks about observing children in their learning experience, gives different methods of observation, and gives detailed information of each area of play broken down into small segments. Penrose includes other theorists such as Piaget, Vygotsky and Bronfenbrenner.
This relates to me as I have been a nanny and have observed children in their home environment. Being in a different situation I think it will be beneficial for me to use other observation methods as in the new environment I will have to be aware of new and different aspects of a child’s life and my current methods of observations may not be as effective. Researching this will help me to further me in my teaching practice.
143 Words Rose Adams
Jade Lochmann
Review 1: Penrose, P. (1998). Take another look Tirohia Ano: A guide to observing children He momo arahi ki te tiro i nga tamariki. In response to Fal'e I found that this review was very interesting and would be keen to read more on this subject i was especially suprised to learn that children who are praised from an adult are more likely to develope speech at an earlier age than those who are not stimulated in this way. I feel it can be an advantage to have this knowledge to ensure your way of teaching is benefiting all children.
97 words.
Review 2: Cole, E. (2004).Walk in Their Shoes: A Day in the School Life of an Spld Student . Great Britain: Barrington Stoke Ltd. In response to Carly I was drawn to this review as i am eager to research more into learning difficulties. I have come across children with these conditions and have/do wonder and want to know how i can change my style of teaching to a way that these children are able to understand and feel comfortable. I have had the opportunity to meet/know many children with special needs in primary and secondary school and i could see the advantage of them have a good programme set in place right from early childhood. I feel strongly about this and will definatly read into more of this.
128 words
Review 1: In reading the journal Anderson, Lynne. (2008). Liam’s Story: The musical journey of a young boy. I find it amazing how children can learn through something as beautiful as music. Hearing is the first of the senses to be developed in the foetus, and unborn babies as young as 16 weeks will respond to music (Young, 2003). Babies are not only able to hear, and are listening in to music before birth, but they also remember and recognise this music after birth (Glover ft Young, 1998; Young, 2003). It has shown me that music creates interaction between children and their families and benefits them. The article has shown me how music helps with development and understanding and why it should be an important part of a child’s life and how it gives them independence in their learning or singing and chanting words to learn something but it’s a creative learning process which I love as I find that if children a having fun and learning something it is going to stick with them. I found this article really helpful in a way that I want to incorporate music into my teaching. Lizee Harris 193 words
Review 2: In the review of Brownlee (2004) Rose explains the importance of allowing a child's creativity to flow when using their imagination. It interests me how Rose talks about how it is necessary to let the child make their own decisions and how if we as adults interfere it can stunt their creative development. As a person I find it hard not to interfere in some children’s work especially something like art as it is such a big part of my life like when doing projects or creative things I feel I say things I think will make it better but now as a teacher I have learnt to step back and observe how children do things as their imagination is so full of ideas I wouldn’t even think of. Her suggestion of encouragement and support towards the child’s creative work is something I am going to do more of as a teacher I love the way children express themselves through something creative and I am glad to be a part of it when I am. Lizee Harris 175 words
In the review of Bayley (2005) Maryann discussed that how music can have impact on children’s movement and memory. I think this book is very interesting for me to read as that I believe that music is a huge inspiration for development for children and I think this book will help me to understand deeper that why music affect children so much, what kind of effects that music have on children and what type of skills that children can develop through music and how we help them. This book seems very useful to me as even though I am interested in this area but I don’t have too much acknowledge of it so it will be really useful as it can give me lots of information that I could use to teach my students later.
Word count:135 Melody Sun
In the review of Ramage (1997) Aimee talkes about this book gives us lots of learning and teaching strategies. She talks about mostly children learn effectively with lots of encouragement and good environment that we provide for them. Also she talks about in the book it discussed that how to encourage children to do things that they are capable with rather than pushing them into things that they can’t do etc. I found this book very useful, especially for people like me that don’t really have much work experience with children. It give us an idea of what we should do and what we should not do to help children to learn which I had no idea before. So I think this book will be very valuable to read as it provides lots of strategies that you may not know before and it will help you to be a better teacher.
Word count:148 Melody Sun
Sharyn Griffen ** In the review of Bayley and Broadbent (2005), Maryanne discusses how this particular chapter is about music helping a child with moving their body and developing their memory. She talks about how it develops a child’s listening, verbal speech and memory. I agree strongly with this idea as music can be difficult when you have to remember so much, such as the tune of the song, what the actions are, the beat and lots more. It also helps children to have fun while learning and can be calming so they have the chance to learn and interact with other children.
In the review of Browlee (2004), Paula talks about how important colouring in is for children. She explains how colouring in helps a child’s muscles develop when they try to stay in the lines of a picture. I found this really interesting because we as adults sometimes want to do it for the child so it looks nice but when we do that we are stopping the opportunity for the child to learn and develop. This book would be a great read for us as adults so we can help encourage children in different areas of their learning.
Word count: 200
I too am referring to the review of Eliason, C., & Jenkins, L. [1999, I find that Noriko couldn’t have chosen a more interesting source to review. I love the fact that children do not just learn in one particular way. Everyday in the early childhood centre you will find a child learning in a totally different way to another. When they learn I at the same time learn too. Being a part of a child’s learning experience is the most rewarding thing for myself. When reading this the main thing that kept coming into mind was the common saying “no child is the same” whether it be cultural differences or in this case the way they learn. I loved this reading and fully agree with what has been said. I can definitely keep this in mind with my teaching experience
Add your comments and feedback on at least 2 of the sources included within the review of academic sources.
You should not be commenting on the source you added but on other people's.
Please use the correct reference within your discussion. See the example below.
Add your discussion comments under this line with your name and word count included.
In the review of Cole (2004) Carly talks about the importance of teachers learning about the many different “specific learning difficulties”. I believe this book would be extremely helpful for teachers so they are able to have a basic idea of how children are affected by learning difficulties and what we as teachers can do to understand and support the child and their family. If we do not have the understanding we will not be able give them the same learning experience which would not benefit the child in any way.I have no experience with learning difficulties and I feel it would be great to know, I believe reading this book would offer me awareness on specific learning difficulties.
120 words
Anita Jacobs
In the review Brownlee (2004) Rose discusses the importance of children being able to choose their own creative work without teachers interfering but supporting. I agree with this completely, in my work experience centre I was sitting with some children while they were drawing and one of the children showed a teacher their artwork asking if the teacher liked it and she said to him it was not very good and that he should start again. After she had said this his facial expression changed from being very proud of his picture to disappointed in what he had done. I then said to him quietly do you like your picture? He smiled at me and said yes and I replied the main thing is you like it, he then went on to tell me about what is picture was and what everyone was doing I was even lucky enough to get a picture for myself.
I would enjoy reading this book because I would be very interested in learning how I can encourage children to be creative but to be creative in what they want to do.
187 Words
Anita Jacobs
Discussion comments:
In the review of Ladd (2007) Anita discusses about the influence peers have on each other. The review goes on to add that a child learns more from their peers and siblings than from parents and teachers because they identify themselves with their peer group. Personally, I have seen that if a child is not willing to try a food and if they see their friends enjoying it, they want to try it for themselves or if they haven’t tried a sport or activity before and they watch their peers enjoying it, they want to ‘give it a go’. They learn both by observing their peers and by the reactions they get. This is not surprising at all because there are more children in early childhood centre than there are adults and they learn from each other.I would definitely like to read this book and increase my understanding of children behaviour. I personally agree with it for children do learn by observing and imitating each other. I would like to get a copy of the book so that it can guide me in my journey towards becoming a teacher.
Jay Joshi
190 words.
In the review of Brownlee (2004) Rose emphasizes the significance of creativity for children. It discuses the importance of letting the child make its own decision about their work and using their imagination to the fullest. I agree children should be given adequate encouragement so that they feel proud of their creation. The piece of art should be displayed and presented well. This gives the child a sense of achievement and knows his work is valued. It is also imperative to know that the process of creativity is more vital that the artwork itself and care should be taken when asking questions about the artwork for sometimes the child could feel unsure as to why such a question is being asked.
I found the review insightful, helpful and interesting. I absolutely agree that the child should be given full reign in deciding about their creative process for creativity is a way of expression for the child. I would definitely use the advice given by the author in regards to creativity of a child.
Jay Joshi
173 words.
In the review of Brownlee (2004) Rose discusses the importance of a child’s creative process. I can appreciate how others, with good intentions, can interfere with this creative flow by my own adult experience of being given a task with guidelines and an expectation to create a particular end product versus having the freedom to find my own creativity and enjoying the process without consideration for the end product. Under pressure the creative process was stifled and I was more conscious of my inabilities than my creativity. The review covered how the author encouraged adults to treat children’s artwork with ‘enthusiasm and respect’ and to present this work well. Communication is also a key, giving examples to the reader of how a child can interpret what we say to them, especially when it is in regard to their own work.
Rose’s review reflected the information that this book has on offer and that it would prove to be invaluable to all people who care for children and wish to support them in their journey of creative discovery. With the help of this book, I also look forward to re-igniting my own creativity as I take advantage of what Brownlee has to offer.
Rhonda Warner
202 words
In the review of Porter (2003) Aimee highlights the importance of being aware of how we discipline children and the impact this makes on the child. Both the ‘control’ and ‘guidance’ approaches are discussed with the author preferring the latter. Viewing the use of rewards and punishment being dictated by a boss gives an interesting slant on this form of controlling discipline whereas having the educator being viewed in a leadership role, guiding the child to direct their actions in a positive way sits much more comfortably within an early childhood education setting. Extending our knowledge to view disruptive behaviour as a learning opportunity would be an invaluable tool for anyone who works with children. Aimee also emphasises that the author believes educators send mix messages when disciplining children for being creative. We want child to think outside the square, but not act outside it. Achieving both creativity and appropriate behaviour is a constructive goal to work towards.
This book sounds full of practical, instructive information that I would be interested in adding to my teaching philosophy. I feel these tools would benefit both my teaching abilities and the children I work with.
Rhonda Warner
193 words
In the review of Brownlee (2004), Rose shows that the main topic of the chapter ‘The Creative Process’ is how children’s creativity is developed. I believe that this reading would be useful to me as I often find that I struggle to provide children with new and stimulating learning opportunities for creativity. Also in Rose’s review, she shows that within Brownlee’s reading, he talks of the importance of respecting a child’s artwork. Adults need to be careful and aware of certain things during their interaction with a child and their creativity, but must never influence the creation of the piece. The adult needs to recognise that it is the process, not the product that is important. I find this topic interesting, valuable, and relevant to circumstances that occur every day. This reading is about a way of thinking about children and their creativity. I admire this, and want to train my mind to think in these ways, so I believe this reading would be of great use to me.
Word count: 169
Carly Bean
In the review of Ladd (2007), Anita shows that the chapter Social Learning in the Peer Context is about the importance of a child learning through social behavior. I find this topic to be very interesting as I believe that this is an area in early childhood that I need to know more about. As I work with infants and toddlers, it can sometimes be difficult to see and understand the mechanics of how these young children learn and work together. It is shown in the review that children learn from their peers, as they have more in common with each other than with adults. This interested me, as it shows the importance of having a child included in an early childhood setting. As shown in Anita’s review, children learn a great deal from their peers by observing, mimicking, and working as a team. These are things that we, as teachers, can not teach, but can provide the opportunity for the child to do for him/herself. I believe this chapter would be useful as it would allow me to understand that socialising is an important part of growing and learning that each child needs to encounter.
Word count: 196
Carly Bean
Source1:
In Response to Roses Resource: The Creative Process by Brownlee, Pennie (2004).I feel as if she has made a few valid points to which we could look into further, it is very interesting to read that some one (Brownlee, P) has taken the time to collect information on how a child can interoperates your actions as an educator with their creative work.
I think that this would be a good read to see how (Brownlee, P) talks more in-depth about this. As everyday working with children is valuable and I would very much like to never give a child the impression that their work is not appreciated or not wanted.
So thanks Rose for this it has got me thinking.
(121 words)
Source 2:
In response to Maia and her Resource:Gerber, M. (2002). Praise or acknowledgment
This has some very interesting facts, which grabbed my attention. I find when I’m teaching the children and they do something fantastic, I change my pitch and tone of my voice, and tell them how great that was and how well they did, but reading that reflection on the book Maia read makes me think am I praising the children in the right way, am I praising the child, or the action and what are the children getting from my response to them. I think this is some great research that Maia has done and it would be great to get a hold of this book and read more as this important to my teaching.
(131 words)
By Milly Crawford
In the review of Cole (2004), Carly discusses the affects of specific learning difficulties, specifically, asperger’s syndrome, on children and their learning. First I needed to find out what asperger’s is…… Asperger’s is a mild form of autism which is displayed through difficulties in social interaction and repetitive and restricted patterns in behaviour and interests. Physical clumsiness is also a symptom.
After reading Carly’s review (and googling asperger’s) a few questions came to mind; does this book detail symptoms of the learning difficulties? How can it be identified? Does it give advice on how to address this issue if you suspect a child has a learning difficulty? Does it compare how a ‘normal’ child’s mind works with a child’s mind who suffers from a learning difficulty?
I would be extremely interested in reading this book to hopefully find some answers, and understand how I am able to identify learning difficulties, how a child with a learning difficulty learns and is taught, and how I, as an educator can assist and support them.
Aimee Watson
Word Count 169
An adult’s role in children’s play is discussed in Anjani’s review of Dockett & Fleer (1999). This chapter has made me more aware of the role I take when interacting with children. It has highlighted the importance of observation of play and details the roles that an adult undertakes when conducting play with children. Examples are well documented throughout the chapter, making it easy to relate the text back to my own practice. I spend a lot of time interacting with children and after reading this chapter I feel I have a better understanding of the learning that takes place through play. I have realised that I quite often become a tutor and tend to take over when interacting with children. I would like to take a more supportive role in children’s learning through play and now feel equipped to stand back, observe and assess the play that is taking place before I sit down and join the children.
Aimee Watson
Word Count 159
I refer to the review sourced by Paula Rudd on Kei Tua o te Pae (Assessment for Learning: Early Childhood Exemplars). It was only this afternoon 16/3/10 that I came across the whole file of 20 books referred to, at our office and I found them informative and interesting. The few that I looked at were said to be structured around Te Whariki and focused on reviews or assessments of learning in early childhood centers. The exemplars have shown creative and visible learning ideas that can be shared and discussed with staff and will give a head start for the student teachers on how to write a learning story or assist with the activities they might want to explore. The inclusion of Maori language is a great beginning in recognizing the Te Reo and the books are easy to read, without having to refer to the dictionary every so often. The Exemplars have illustrated and demonstrated a diversity of learning from a variety of backgrounds and cultures and the feedback from parents confirm their participation in the children’s learning.
Sara Tanielu-Seve
181 Words
In reference to a review sourced by Maia Thompson on Gerber (2002), the reading was challenging and testing in the sense that made me wondered whether how am I being, when acknowledging or praising the children. I have an only child who is four years old, and to see her face when she is being commended for something she had done, says it all and suggested that she too, was pleased with whatever she was praised for. Gerber (2002) affirms how praising a child over the action might be received negatively which I feel is true but to praise when something is achieved in a positive surrounding without making them or the other playmate feel inadequate, is important. A lot of times they may just need your happy face to let them know that they are doing great, as actions do speak louder than words in some situations. This book will definitely help me with my communications and relations with the children and with my own child. “Good girl Maia.”
Sara Tanielu-Seve
176 Words
I was dismayed, yet elated to see Dear Parent: Caring for infants with respect (Gerber, 2002) reviewed. Dismayed as I had thought of reviewing the book myself and elated that others had already discovered the great source of information included in the book. Not only is the chapter covered by Maia relevant but the entire book is worth a read. I feel the book can help you reflect on the way you deal with infants but can also inspire you to be more respectful in your relationship with them. As discussed by Maia the book covers praise or acknowledgment as well as many different topics from movement to biting to toilet training. The book was handed to me by my head teacher on my first day at the centre. Once I had read the book I could understand why. All the topics covered in the book come with advice on how to deal with these in a respectful manner. I feel all people like to be valued and treated with respect so why should infants feel any differently. The book encourages parents and educators to do just that, treat infants in their care with respect. Magda Gerber is well known in the field of early childhood and her philosophy of respect much admired. I would recommend this book to anyone dealing with infants in any capacity.
By Paula Rudd Word Count 226
In the review of Cole (2004) Carly draws attention to Aspergers syndrome. After reading this review and sourcing the book I agree that having knowledge of learning difficulties is imperative to our success as teachers. The information provided by sufferers of this condition also gave a very human element to the research. This review held particular importance to me as an adult family member of mine suffers from mild Aspergers. Despite knowing this and being what I consider to be an empathetic person I have at times become frustrated with his behaviour and thought of him as lazy, socially inept and immature. Through examining the symptoms of Aspergers I started to recognise where my relative's behaviour originates from. This review gave me a greater understanding of Aspergers and I realised mild sufferers who achieved well academically although struggled socially and with life skills almost have an invisible disability, where the behaviour of the individual is considered normal enough at times that they do not necessarily get the help they need. I wonder if my relative would have found it easier to ‘fit in’ with society if as a child his teachers had been knowledgeable of ‘specific learning difficulties’ such as Aspergers? Therefore, we must endeavour to understand what type of behaviour children with these conditions present. If we are able to recognise these conditions we can seek the help we need to assist the children in our care, giving them the best opportunities for learning. It saddens me to think that children could be as harshly judged as my relative through mere ignorance and lack of understanding.
267 words
Maia Thompson
In the review of O’Connor and Diggins (2002) Merrilee talks about the important of being a reflective practitioner. When I was reading the attached text I was struck by the comment that a practitioner who is confidant in their abilities is more likely to accept constructive criticism and reflect on their practice and see where improvements can be made. This was an interesting read as it explains how important it is to reflect on events so we can make changes otherwise we will continue to do the same things out of habit, even if they are not working. From looking at this review I feel this book would be a useful tool to us as teachers as it gives us the skills to continue to grow and learn after we have finished our studies and are in the workforce.
139 words
Maia Thompson
Nimlesh Narayan
In the review of Ladd (2007) Anita explains that children learn more from their peers than from their parents. When I am at my work experience centre,children tend to communicate with their peers very well. If there is any interference of an adult, the communication at some stage breaks. Children are interested in copying adults but they always want to try new acts with their peers. As mentioned in the review, children learn from their peers by working together,observing their peers and mimicking. I have also noticed in my work experience centre when children work in groups they do very well and I do agree with Anita. I will be interested to do more readings on "Contemporary perspectives on socialisation and social development" to know how children behave and learn from their peers and how I can use this knowledge into practice as becoming a Teacher.
(word count 150)
Nimlesh Narayan
In the review of Brownlee (2004) Rose explains that the creative process in children is important and I totally agree to this. Children are very creative and they only need adults support and encouragement. At my work experience centre, children were playing in the sandpit and they asked me to sit at their pretend dinner table. As children were busy cooking, a child came with a bucket full of leaves and said to me, "Nimlesh, this is our pretend lettuce for dinner".That day I learnt something from a child and I was proud of her. Leaves can be pretend lettuce which I never thought about it. The more they pretend, the more creative they become in life. I am very much interested in reading this book and have a copy of my own because I want to learn more on how I can support and encourage children in their creativity as a teacher.
(word count 148)
In the review of MacNaughton, Williams (2004) Nim discusses the authors view’s on praising children. This book will interest me, given my discussion with a teacher at my centre who believes the opposite. Chapter 6 sounds as if it has some helpful information for asking children to help each other, as this is an area that I haven’t given a great deal of thought to yet. I am encouraged by this book’s idea’s to encourage non verbally and not to take over the child’s work. I have found a great many children are unwilling to take on writing their name on work, but with a scaffolding technique, have discovered that they do very well all by themselves. This is a wonderful sense of achievement for the children and also for me, as I feel that we have both achieved. For a teacher there is no greater reward than seeing the delight on a child’s face when I praise them for a job well done. I am interested to see if they refer to the scaffolding technique I referred to, where we encourage a child to take a tiny step at a time. If children say “I can’t write my name”, ask if they can write the first letter, often they can. Then talk them though each letter until they succeed!
220 words
Cathy Bolton
Rose’s review on Brownlee (2004) has been reviewed to death, probably because it’s a topic we can all relate to. In question one the majority of us have a tendency to be kinesthetic, and perhaps this reflects that the majority are creative people. I definitely am. It’s a passion of mine and as I have always said to children who say that they can’t draw. ANYONE can draw, it’s just that the way we draw is different to everyone. You can put a bunch of flowers on a table and ask them to draw what they see, they will all be different. I love the thought that the way we display the child’s work will make a child feel that their work is valued, I will be thinking about this when displaying the work. It’s not about it being pretty; it’s about making a child feel valued! It is easy to see that adults can interfere when an art activity is not going the way they planned. I personally hate it when someone tells you what would look good, when I put it the way I wanted it. As adults we can usually tell the difference between constructive criticism and just plain criticism, but children can’t differentiate and it is so important not to stop them trying all together.
219 words
Cathy Bolton
Aimee’s review on Porter (2003) is another subject that interests us all as teachers. The three reviews that I have done are directly related to moral issues. Guidance in behavior, praise, and how to encourage children to develop their creativity.
While I would like to think that I do not use the controlling style, this is the hardest to try to not do with other children usually involved. Who hasn’t told a child to stop hitting the other children; some things have to be stopped NOW, before any real damage is done. This is NOT the area I want to be a controller and I hope to develop fully in this area over the next three years, so that I know how to encourage children to behave in an acceptable manner. I will definitely be getting this book and having a good study as I really would love to help children become responsible members in society.
We have a child in our centre that is threatening other children. He’s quite intimidating. I would really like to figure out how to help him stop this behavior, but we try all sorts and so far no luck. He’s off to school soon, so I feel like we’ve failed somehow. Strangest thing is he’s a nice child really.
215 words
Cathy Bolton
Review of The Discovery of Early Childhood (May, 1997) by Liz Reedy.
The above book is one of the required books for the course. Upon reading the book you can understand why. I agree with Liz that by reading the book it gives you a greater understanding of how far the work in early childhood has come. By looking back at the different theorists, some of whom are still influential today and others who have been discredited you begin to understand just how amazing it is that we have the curriculum we have today as well as the understanding that it is and always will be a work in progress. It shows how political education has always been and how it has evolved at times to meet a purely political agenda. The book introduces educators such as Maria Montessori whose theories have been influential in New Zealand since 1913 and still are today. The book overall is a great source of history detailing the evolution of an early childhood curriculum within the early childhood sector in New Zealand and worldwide.
Paula Rudd
Sara Beazley
The review of Porter (1998) by Rhonda Warner is a great book to look to when trying to get into the mindset of a child. Rhonda's review of the book touches on the different methods of effective observation when looking at a child play and the theorists that have helped to shape our curriculum today. It also talks about how different stages of learning effect children at different times. She has also shown that the book has incorporated Maori beliefs and Te Whariki in it's writing. I feel this is a great to book read to look to as students as it talks about a lot of subjects that we will need to learn about in the next three years. I also find this book intriguing, as it doesn't just tell you about the child, but also how to better yourself as a parent or teacher. I will definitely be reading this book in the future and I believe that it will be extremely helpful in our study.
(Word Count: 168)
Sara Beazley
In the review of Brownlee (2004) Rose goes into detail about the importance of allowing a child's creativity to flow when using their imagination. I find it interesting how Rose talks about it is necessary to let the child make their own decisions and how if we as adults interfere it can stunt their creative development. As a parent I am always interfering with my daughters painting, telling her what colours to use and to use all the white space up on the paper. Her suggestion of support and encouragement towards the child's creative work is a great suggestion to both include the adult in the child's work and encourage the child to be more creative in their thinking. I think Rose's review is very interesting and I will definitely be reading this book very soon.
(Word Count: 136)
In the review of “Play and pedagogy in early childhood” bending the rules. By Anjani Prakash. She focusis on analysing play and the adults role in children's play. It would be great to know that when you are involved in a group of children's play that your are fulling their minds with meaningfull knowledge. I think I would enjoy reading these chapters as I always like to get involved in children's play and it would help to read up on if im doing it the right way and it sounds like a worth while read concidering what Anjani said about how it helped her. After reading the chapter she feels she can interact with children more wisley. There for an effective read it is. And I believe that the children are to be in control of there own play.
Word count 143
Paula Bacon
In the rewiew of the book called Contemporary perspectives on socialisation and social development in early childhood education. By Nimleesh. She talk about and qoutes Ladd (2007) In how children can learn from their peers in some areas where they can't learn from others. I have seen this happen in my centre, by children watching how other children would do something and simply copying them. An example from my experience a child won't hold a prayingmantis until hes seen another child hold it first. Even though I had told him you can hold it. It won't hurt you. I would love to read this chapter as I think it sounds very interesting and helpful for any learing teacher in ECE.
Word count 110
Paula Bacon
Robin’s review of Tan, C.(1996) The Brilliance and the Ordinary. In Teach Your Children Well. (pp. 42-50). Wellington: GP Print, had me agreeing, disagreeing and questioning my “common sense beliefs” about the way we learn. I do not know if I agree with his belief that “no one person is smarter than the other”, or is the element that causes a person to be smarter, the fact that they had better learning opportunities from a young age? I look at young children and some definitely learn quicker than others. Do we take this as being a sign that that child is more intelligent? And why is that child learning at a faster rate from others? I can see one of the answers to this being that learning strategies may need to be customised to the needs of the child. As we all have different interests and likes and dislikes this must surely be a fundamental reason why peoples strengths and weaknesses differ. If we are to encourage children to form a love of subjects they had never experienced before I feel the key must lie in capturing them at a young age.
Sue David
Word count 192
I have chosen Rhonda’s review of Penrose, P. (1998). Take Another Look Tirohia Anō: A guide to observing children He momo ārahi ki te tiro i ngā tamariki . (2nd ed.). Auckland: New Zealand Playcentre Federation., as I believe this book will help me answer some of the questions I raised from Robin’s review. If, from our different methods of observation we understand how the child learns then hopefully we are in a better position to customise the curriculum to their needs. This may mean that one method may not suit all and that we are required to be more creative and resourceful in our techniques. From the review I understand that the breaking down of different areas of play gives the educator the opportunity to cater for many learning capabilities therefore creating a more level learning platform.
I would like to read more of this book as I believe I could learn plenty from it in the way of observations and teaching strategies.
Sue David
Word count 164
Paula’s review on Kei Tau o te pae i: Assessment for learning: Early childhood Exemplars by The Ministry of Education (2007) is valid because it discusses assessment in early childhood education, it is important to acknowledge the stories of a child’s journey in a centre and to know where we are in a learning sense. I believe it is also important to use these experiences and apply them towards the future. This benefits the community by valuing the ways in which our children learn and to help encourage diverse learning pathways. In this reference it also refers to Te Whariki and its principles which should also be acknowledged in all teaching practices. I believe this resource is valuable because it can help teachers reflect on the different ways of learning to better themselves and their skills to make a positive difference to children’s development in the present and in the future. I think this reference could be beneficial to all early childhood educators.
162 Words
Nicole Wheat
Maia’s review of Taking Control by The ministry of Education (2009) is interesting because it sounds quite threatening when she says ‘Take Control’ but when applied in a situation where a child’s behaviour might be harmful towards themselves or others it sounds reasonable. The relevance to this reference is that there are many strategies in which we should consider as teachers to use in difficult situations. In these strategies it gives examples of such situations and how to achieve positive results through giving goals and successful actions, which are referred to in Te Whariki. It also discusses different methods like ‘time out’ which is now being replaced by ‘inclusionary time out’ and ‘cool down time’. I’m not sure I agree with some of these strategies or methods but despite this, the reference has been insightful in a number of ways.
139 Words
Nicole Wheat
In the review of Gerber, M. (2002). Praise or acknowledgment (2nd ed) J. Weaver (Ed.). Dear parent : Caring for infants with respect by Magda Gerber . Los Angeles, California: Resources for Infant Educarers
Maia Thompson discusses the relevance of this reading for us as teachers to use in our work. I can relate to what Maia finds important in this chapter, Gerber (2002) talks about the importance of praise or acknowledgment and how to do this effectively in the early childhood setting. In this chapter it also highlights what Gerber (2002) believes, that when you praise the child over the action the child may think he/she is bad if he does not achieve success. I understand what this review is pointing out and believe that it is very imported for us to try and not use these "good girl" and "bad boy" terms in our everyday practice, here it also begins to explain how and why you should praise your child and how we can integrate this into our work.
I would like to read more of Gerber's work, i think his approach would become really helpfully and would have some good insights into how i can become a better teacher.
Patricia Kendrick
Word count 203
In the review Kinney, L., & Wharton, P.(2008) Jesse talks about children taking part in the decisions about their learning. He also talks about the whole whanau taking part in the child's learning and development. In my work experience centre an activity that involves teachers, whanau and the child takes place. Every two months the teachers set a goal as to what they want the child to work on, the parents tell the teachers what area they want their child to develop in, and the child also tells the teachers what they want to learn at the centre. This policy is an example of children and whanau taking part in the child's learning. The whanau and child are highly encouraged to have their input as to what activies may be effective to accomplish the goals. Their contribution to the learning activies are greatly appreciated by everyone involved. Jesse stated children have the right to be heard, I agree and can relate to this due to the effectiveness of my work experience activity. I think this book would be benificial to read to develop more ways on how to involve the child and family in learning decisions.
196 words
Nicole.Korff
In the review Brownlee, Pennie (2004) Rose talks about how important it is to let a child be creative and decide on what it is they want to create by using their own imagination. Every individual child has the ability or can learn the skill of being creative. In my work experience centre we follow through with this aspect of childrens development and the children can express their own ideas into all activies they choose to do. Rose also talks about the importance of talking to the child about what they have created and giving praise to them. I think this works well as the child can see the interest that is shown to their artwork etc. At my work experience centre a child drew around a stencil of a cow, I noticed she had drawn something on the legs and the neck of the animals so I asked her what they were. They were bracelets and a necklace she had drawn on her animals.I thought that was so creative. I showed an interest in her artwork and praised her for the beauty of her animals and the jewellery they wore. The outcome was she walked away feeling proud of her work. I would definitely be interested in reading this book to find out what good questions can be asked when talking to a child about their work.
228 words
Nicole.Korff
Nicole’s review of MacNaughton & Williams (2000), describing how teachers can Model desirable behavior either verbally or non-verbally certainly has every day application. I was just reading a chapter in the book, that I’ve reviewed. It discusses the subject of teachers as behavior models. I thought about how important it is to be attentive in the way we address children, and as Nicole said in her review, remembering to say “thank you” and acknowledging their efforts, when they try to implement positive social behavior. We can use “modeling” to teach values such as empathy, respect, and appreciation in the way we speak and behave towards each child. As Nicole said, children imitate and copy the behavior of others, and that is how they learn. I like the example of modeling non-verbal behavior in the sand-pit. I think this book would be a useful resource to own or refer to, in my teaching practice.
(153 words)
Michelle Johnson
Maia’s review of Gerber (2002) raises questions for me about how I praise and acknowledge certain behaviour. The point of using acknowledgement to “broadcast” a child’s actions is certainly interesting. It occurred to me that only 20 years ago, if you used this technique in a teaching setting, you would be considered very odd indeed! However we now know that one of the many ways that children learn is when an adult verbally reinforces achievements. I’m not sure that I agree with the theory that when we say “good girl” or “good boy” that the child is getting the message that they’re not being good if they don’t achieve success the rest of the time. However I believe that we can over-praise and when we do, the praise loses impact. Lastly in Maia’s review of Gerber (2002) I think another important aspect to note is that by emphasizing positive behavior, we are giving the child our full attention. I would be interested to read more of what Gerber has to say on this topic.
(174 words)
Michelle Johnson
Review 1:
In the review the importance of brain development, Sara talks about the very important role that the teacher plays in an infant’s life. She discusses that although we ‘don’t always grasp the scientific language of the brain’ it is still very important to provide a firm foundation for the child in their early years. I found this article very informing, I was never aware that an experience such as high levels of stress, could often cause death of neurons in a babies brain resulting in hindered brain development. I think this is a very important point to consider. When we are teaching it has become clear that repetition of good experiences and interactions will do wonders for the child’s development, however, it is our responsibility to make sure that negative experiences do not make their way into our class room, because if repeated, the child’s development will end up suffering severely. This is not only something we want to avoid as teachers, but also as parents and other caregivers of our children. I found this article enlightening, it explained the way the brain works with a simple and understandable language.
Word Count: 190
Review 2:
In the review on taking control Maia talks about the different behavioral strategies that can be used with children of different ages within an early childhood centre. I found some of the strategies in this article very useful, and feel they will become beneficial for me when I am working in a centre. In the first paragraph they discussed the theory of avoiding the words “no” and “do not” when disciplining. They do this to prevent the use of negative feedback when working with the children. They advise using sentences such as “gentle hands” “nice words please”, insuring the positive behavior is not only noticed, but focused on. This article was helpful in relation to discipline. It provided important information, followed up with well explained examples.
Word Count: 126
Robin Clark
In the review of Apprenticeship approach and Becoming a writer, pages 60-61 Jay outlines and describes how children learn to read and write. A popular approach to help children develop the skills they need, the apprenticeship approach. The children are active partners in the reading process with the support of adults, this was felt to be more productive. The writer explains that children no matter who they are or where they are from generally experience simular ways in which they deveop there literacy skills and experiences. It could be a baby using their fingers during meal times and making patterns in their food, or on the opposite end of the social scale children would use sticks to write and draw on the dirt. The article has given me an idea about how there is not one right or wrong way for children to learn, there is not one single solution. Educators recognise that a combination of methods to address the different learning styles of children.
Word count:165
Tori Sefuiva
Carly's review of Walk in their shoes:A day in the school life of an spld student, it outlines and describes different types of learning disorders but explains more about Aspergers syndrome. It offers the point of view of a child on how it is to have this type of disorder. With early childhood centres mainly being the first in a child's education it is important for teachers to develop their understanding in the learning difficulties that children may live with.
I feel that it was a great review and will be a very important part of our teaching as we may have to deal with a child that has a certain SPLD. I need to be aware and understanding of a child with SPLD and be able to help with their education in the best way possible. I hope to expand on my knowlegde with special needs within my three years of training and experiences.
Word count:155
Tori Sefuiva
In the review of Tan, C. [1996] Robin discusses the optimum environment for all learners, whatever their learning abilities. I found this chapter very interesting as it re-affirmed my own ideas on the role of support we play in helping children learn. I know that it is not necessarily beneficial to be goal orientated, and I personally think it is important to learn from a love of learning, and not necessarily in a competitive way. As Tan says ,‘Intelligence and later achievement are far from perfectly correlated’. This approach can take the pressure off and more learning can often result. The secret to the method of this teaching seems to be our positive attitude and buckets of patience! I also agree that creative skills are not considered to be important skills in children’s education. As a mother of a ‘non-academically focused’ child I beg to differ from that view. I think all children’s skills should be valued as this builds confidence which will aid further learning in all areas.
I would like to read more of Tan’s work, as I feel it really challenges a lot of pre-conceptions we may have, and give us valuable insight into learning styles. I definitely think it is worth a read!
Merrilee de Simas
212 words
In the review of Eliason, C., & Jenkins, L. [1999], Noriko discusses the many aspects of the young child’s learning process. She talks about how the children learn in a very interactive and sensory way, through communication, questioning and real life experiences. I found this reading very interesting and some of the incidences of children’s miscommunication gave me a bit of a giggle! It really re-affirmed for me why I love teaching young children; to be able to contribute to preserving and fostering a child’s perspective, and to be a part of the awe that they feel as they discover their world is a privilege. I liked the way this reading was very “down to earth” and talked about the importance of spontaneous learning; not everything has to be planned and structured. It really struck a chord with me in the reading when I came across this comment; ‘A new discovery at any age should stimulate an intrinsic sense of fulfillment within oneself.’
I wholeheartedly agree and would definitely like to read more of these authors work.
By Merrilee de Simas
180 words
Ministry of Education. (2007). Kei Tua o te pae i: Assessment for Learning: Early Childhood Exemplars. Wellington: Learning Media.
I am responding to Paula Rudd on Assessment for learning: Early childhood exemplars. I found that the learning stories and examples in the 20 books I browsed over are extremely interesting and we can all learn quite a bit from them. They not only show us how to link our learning stories to Te Whariki but also an idea on what to put into them, whether it be creativity or ideas for learning. It shows how to take it to the next level when we think about what next, how to expand on their learning next. For myself I found including and or recognising other cultures in the centre the most interesting because I find it hard to know what is ok and what is not ok when relating to other cultures I am not familiar with.
Jaime' Oosthuizen
word count:156
Siale Palanite
I have read some of Piaget's theory as Cathy Bolton described in her review and found the information helpful. What attracts my attention are the four stages of cognitive development. Understanding the differences between these stages could help me identify the level in which the children may want to develop. Piaget also indicated to teach information that the child can absorb rather than introducing in formation that is beyond their capability to understand. This statement is very interesting and it reminds me a story that was told by a friend. She said that her daughter always complaint about her three months old baby being unhappy when she was about to feed him. She just found out later that her daughter used to feed him with food that is not appropriate for the baby's tummy or the baby's tummy can not absorb. Babies have certain food according to their age. Giving them food which their system do not digest would harm their system This event applies to Piaget's statement. This theory is one of the sources that suggests lots of information that would guide me with my journey in early childhood education.
word count: 175
Paula Bacon's review of Brownlee, P. (2004) Magic Places: Young children's creative artwork, I found particularly interesting as I did not feel completely comfortable with the idea of children learning to colour with the use of colouring books. It suggests to me that there is too much emphasis on a 'right or wrong' way of doing things. Being creative should be about a child's expression, so for instance a child may draw a series of continual circles and then describe it as a train track or a spider's web, without the confines of what it is meant to be. However, in saying that some children may enjoy a more structured form. The chapter also talks about the use of colours and the knowledge children gather from learning about colours. I find that children generally like to mix colours together and as they become more developed, they then tend to differentiate between the range of colours.
Although I did not fully agree with the author's viewpoint, I would still be interested in reading the rest of book. Brownlee (2004) may have some research to back her ideas, that could be useful for teachers.
Fal'e Davey
Word count: 190
In the review of Dockett, S., & Fleet, M. (1999). Play and pedagogy in early childhood: bending the rules, Anjani Prakash talks about the role of adults interacting in child's play and games. The importance of adults 'supporting, encouraging, and guiding' children's learning. I believe it is imperitive that teachers allow children the space to take a lead in their learning through play or games. The teacher's role is to support that learning with knowledge and resources to extend a child's experience. I believe it is also important to stand back and allow children to make choices and decisions for themselves and only when they require adult intervention, then the teacher can assist.
Anjani made a link between her practice and the author's observations of children in play. I look forward to reading this book, as I think that it will be helpful in building our knowledge around play and pedagogy in an early childhood setting.
Fal'e Davey
Word count: 162
In the book by Goodchild, R. (2004). "Teaching children the joy of reading” (2nd ed.) Michelle talks about the importance of reading and how to encourage the joy of reading to children. I agree when Michelle discuss how reading has a positive impact on the child’s learning. Michelle goes on to discuss how it helps the child in every area of the curriculum. It helps to give parents advise on getting children to say words in the right context. Reading for any child yet along ones that are 2 – 5! Reading should be made enjoying and fun, something for the child to look forward to. I agree that parents need to relate what they child is reading to daily life. I agree that getting children to read from an early age helps them with there vocabulary and it differently helps the child to enhance of their understanding of words. Overall I think this is an excellent book for both parents and teachers, to try and make reading fun for the children, make is something that they can look forward to so they can keep reading all through school.
Jesse Greenslade Word Count 184
In the book by Porter, L. (2003). “Young children’s Behavior" Aimee discusses a certain chapter about discipline. Aimee discusses two approaches to discipline; both styles are outlined and demonstrated with the guidance reproach being more affective. I agree when she talks about when rewards being used it gives the child the impression that the educator is the boss. The educator may appear to be controlling from the child’s point of view. The guidance approach is discussed and the approach is where the child is taught to direct their own actions and from this the educators assume the role of a leader. It talks about children usually take risks, as children get enjoyment from their inappropriate behavior. She discusses that the guidance approach is valuable tool to assist children to focus on their behavior. Overall this book will be a valuable read for all of us as we all work with children. Knowing different ways of dealing with behaviors is such an advantage, as teachers and I believe it will be hugely beneficial for us to have ways to deal with it.
Jesse Greenslade 179
Michelle Smith
In the review of "Why be a reflective practitioner", Merrilee talks about how important it is to reflect on an event to find ways of how we could make improvements on our teaching styles. I always wondered why reflections were a part of our studies but after reading this chapter, I have a greater understanding of the purpose of reflecting on events that happen in our centres. By choosing not to reflect we are not willing to be open to change and therefore will keep teaching the way we always have. I feel that reflections are a huge asset to qualified and training teachers, like myself, as they will help us to identify things that we can change in the way we teach and make our teaching experiences more rewarding and enjoyable.
128 words
In the review of "The discovery of early childhood. step 5. p.107-108"Liz talks about how Maria Montessori's method was one of many other theories that helped to reform the early childhood curriculum in the tweentieth century. By reading this step in the book it has really encouraged me to want to read more. I feel that it is very valuable in my role of becoming an early childhood educator to know the history of where the early childhood curriculum has come from and who was involved in the making of it.
92 words
Chelsea Buchanan
In this book ‘Magic Places: Young children’s creative artwork’ Paula talks about how children learn in a creative and unique process and that is ‘art’. As a teacher I think it is important to be open to new ideas and practical exercises which could be used for a child’s development and learning. I found it interesting how the book described the different benefits and accomplishments, which can come from one little piece of artwork. Like Paula describes how a child can work with different colors and can mix the colors together to make a particular shade. I also think it is important to implement art work in a child’s curriculum as it boosts there imagination and opens up their own creative, colorful and unique minds.
Word Count: 125
In this book 'Integrated learning’ Sue talks about the aspects of how gardening can be a joyful and beneficial learning experience for the children. I agree that the gardening process is very economical and a resourceful way of helping children and their learning. Like Sue describes that they learn mathematical skills, science and the wonder of nature. Each child will be able to see what the plant needs to grow and working as a collaborative team can participate in the joyous process of gardening. I also think it is with an added advantage that you are teaching with a natural renewable resource.
Word Count: 102
Kushla Browne
I found that Maia’s review Gerber, M. (2002). Praise and acknowledgement is very interesting. I am very interested in gathering more information on this book and using the techniques. This makes me think just like many others, am I giving the right type of praise and acknowledgement or am I going about it all wrong at the moment?. It explains how Gerber prefers acknowledgment as opposed to rewards, I strongly agree with this. Explaining how a smile creates just as much or more excitement for an infant as opposed to being given a reward makes me realise even more than before, how important it is to be giving the right acknowledgement. Thank you Maia for your review, look forward to reading the book.
123 words
2. In regards to Mandy’s review of Ka’ai, T., Moorfield, J., Reilly, M., & Mosley,S.(2004). I also have reviewed parts to this book. I am finding it very interesting in learning the ways in which Maori choose to educate children. I find that this opens my mind to other ways of teaching and also makes me think in furthering my Maori language in order to speak fluently. I never imagined that I would be interested in teaching in a Te Kohanga Reo until reading this book and realising that a lot of the ways in which they work appeals to me.
100 Words
I too am referring to the review of Eliason, C., & Jenkins, L. [1999, I find that Noriko couldn’t have chosen a more interesting source to review. I love the fact that children do not just learn in one particular way. Everyday in the early childhood centre you will find a child learning in a totally different way to another. When they learn I at the same time learn too. Being a part of a child’s learning experience is the most rewarding thing for myself. When reading this the main thing that kept coming into mind was the common saying “no child is the same” whether it be cultural differences or in this case the way they learn. I loved this reading and fully agree with what has been said. I can definitely keep this in mind with my teaching experience Jaime' Oosthuizen word count: 141
In the review of Gerber, M.(2002) Praise or acknowledgment, I found that this was a interesting reading as it made me think of the negative views of praising a child. I had never thought that praising or acknowledging a child’s actions can cause a child to think that when he/she is not acting in this same way that he/she is being bad. This is something that I will have to take into account in my own practice when I praise a child. Also in this reading it highlights the criteria for praise. I found this interesting as it states that you should not praise a child that is happily playing or a child that is performing for an adult. I would usually praise that child but this reading made me rethink and question how I praise a child and wheather my praise is actually needed by that child. For example if a child is happily playing would my praise interfere with their play or would it change what the child is thinking. I would like to find out more about Gerber, M. and her theories about praising a child also any other readings regarding praising a child. This will definitely help me with my teaching practice and also at home with my little brother.
word count:214
Suria Iuvale
I have gone through the review of Saile Palanite on Piaget theory reviewed by Cathy Bolton. I totally agree with the review of the writer but would like to add that in spite of the critique of Piaget theory it is an admitted fact that Piaget’s work has been the major theoretical component of introductory books in child development for so many years. According to Piaget the learning is subordinate to development, which he approaches from a biological perspective. Piaget mostly based his theory on the progressive changes in behaviour and thinking that children pass through at different stages in their development. Piaget main interest was in the structure of intellect. He defined structures as the main underlying organisational properties of intelligence which determine that behaviour will be. word count.128 Nadia Khan Liz Reedy When looking at the review On Reflection (pp15) Building from a useful foundation. I agree with Milly that it is an interesting read. This part of the book shows two learning models and how they have changed from 1960’s through to the 1990’s the leaning model which was used at that time from the piagetian model.Which let children have a free learning environment also it showed that the educators intervention was minimal, which made them more of a resource and not so influential. When they discovered Vygotsk’s model of learning which come from a social cultural perspective. He believed that personal experience has a big part to play in a child’s learning. I also agree with Milly when she explains that, through children having different learning experiences with different educators, helps create a child’s understanding. Word count: 137 Danielle Booth Looking at Anita Jacobs review on social learning in the peer context i became interested as it changed my point of view or way of thinking. i had never really thought of children learning more off other children their age rather than their parents or teachers. But after reading this review it made sense to me that this would be the case, because as it states, children around the same age will have simurlar interests and play along each other with a simurlar thought pattern. I also found myself interested in Sue Davids review on intergrated learning as I have done gardening activities with the children in the centre i do my hours with, but I had never thought of doing the learning stategies suggested.
In the review of Gerber (2002) Maia discusses about the importance of praise or acknowledgment and how to do this effectively in the early childhood setting. I found this reading very interesting and useful. It helps me to think praise in different perspective and reflect myself on how have I praise the children. I did use “good body” or “good girl” in inappropriate way in the past. I had never thought that praise the children in this way might confuse children or bring bad affect on them. This reading has helped me to develop and improve my teaching practice on how to praise and acknowledgment the children.Penny Lin
Word count: 107
In the review of Tan (1996) Robin discusses about the author’s theories and ideas that has established on teaching math’s to young children. I agree with author’s belief that no-one person is smarter than others. Also, the pushy and pressuring parents can have bad impact on their children. Author’s concepts are useful for the teaching practice especially, he (1996) states that “a good way to start teaching a child is to actually believe in their progress, develop and acquire skills” (p. 51). I agree with Robin that this reading is interesting and understandable to read. I would like read the full book in the future.
Penny Lin
Word count: 105
Messina Larsen In the review of Ki Te Whaiao:An introduction to Maori culture and society Mandy discusses the importance of children learning together as ‘whanau’ and also the use of Te Kohanga Reo. She mentions some of the virtues learned from children working together which is also important to know. I believe as teachers we need to learn, or take on a more bi-cultural approach to our practices and we can begin this by accepting the heritage of Aotearoa and then following it through to teach younger generations to come. I would like to learn as much as I can about the Maori culture and heritage as I find it interesting, and by reading this book further I believe it will give me a good start to my understanding as I try to start the process of incorporating it into my teaching. 135 words Messina Larsen The review from Magic Places: Young children’s creative artwork (pages 21-30), done by Rose had a lot of relevance and thought to the approaches of teaching. We need to learn the boundaries of interfering in a child’s learning and know where and when to leave them to express their own creative sides. I think this review is important as there are many teachers out there that do not respect and encourage children in such ways when it is critical to do so. I think this review relates to me as I do try and encourage children as best as possible but there is always more I can learn in the way of reinforcing it in everyday practice. 117 words
*
Anjani PrakashReferring to Maia Thompson's reference to Gerber books Praise or acknowledgment and Dear parent: Caring for infants with respect and reading through both attachments, I found it all very informative and related to what we are learning and trying to teach. As beginners to early childhood education, it gives us all an insight to importance of all acknowledgements, both verbal and non-verbal. It informs us all how to communicate effectively and efficiently.
In this review by T J Tuaiti and book Possibilities for partnership: empowering parents to Participate by Keesing Styles, he emphases partnership and achieving this to help all for better communication and education. As student teachers, this book guides us how to approach and access situations and build better relationships with everyone, especially parents.
In the review of Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development. (2006). Learning Begets Learning. Starting Strong II Early Childcare Education. Sara Beasley discuses the importance of pages 37-38, about the economic value of early childcare centres in society. The chapter describes early education as being of “major importance” and states that it increases the productivity of the next stage in education. In turn putting a baby into childcare does not just affect the child in the long run but also the family. I think as student teaching this book could become useful because if we didn't believe in this why would we becoming teachers?.
I would like to read more of this book as i feel that it could have a different view as mine and offer some insight into how to become a better teacher.
Trisha Kendrick
Word count 142
In the review Brownlee (2004) Rose suggests that it is very necessary for children to be capable in deciding what activities they want to do instead of teachers choosing for children. Encouraging children to achieve a piece of art work is important as it could improve their confidence and independence. In the early childhood centre I work at they would prefer children to choose the activities for the day, I think this gives them opportunities to show teachers and whanau that they can be independent in making their own decisions in doing so I believe they become more confident in their everyday decisions. I believe that if teachers let children make their own decisions into what activity they would rather play with, you would see the different personalities how they react differently to each activity. I observed their flair and how they develop with their creativity in their participation.
Word count: 149
In review of Ladd (2007) this chapter, Social Learning in the Peer Context, pages 133 – 164 explains the how children are able learn better with their peers rather than from their teachers, parents and siblings. Ladd (2007) also suggests that children have different stages of learning which impacts on what they learn and how they are learning it. I totally agree with this as I see children all the time learning from their friends and what their friends are doing even if one may feel awkward from getting involved in certain activities. I have seen a young girl climb up a tree while her friend waited at the bottom as she was not very competent with heights up. I think most children interact better with their own age group and gender as they have similar interests like at the centre im working at I see girls playing with girls and boys playing with boys most the time. Children do learn from adults by doing things that adults do but they find it more exciting when they put it into practice with their own peers. I think that children like to interact with other children that are in the same learning stage as them as they find it easier to communicate and choose activities together where as if a child that
Word count: 220
Chanel Dwyer
In the review Gerber, M. (2002). Maia discusses a chapter reguarding the importance of praise and acknowledgement towards children. I think that this is very relevant to my teaching as I am sometimes uncertain on what to praise children on. Children are so often getting told off that when acknowledging positive behaviour it is so important that they know what they did and why they are getting acknowledged for it. Gerbers approach is very good at letting the children know and suits my centres philosophy. Reading this chapter, Gerber has given me more confidence on when and why children should be praised and acknowledged,I also hope to put it into practice and be able to praise and acknowledge children in the best
effective way possible.
Abby Pine
Word count: 126
In the review of Starbucks, S., Olthaf, M. & Midden, K. (2002). Sue discusses the opportunities gardening creates for children. I was fascinated by how gardening cannot only be a fun activity for children but can also teach children math’s, science and even reading/writing if you incorporate it in the activity which in reading this chapter explained how. I think doing activities such as gardening are so important for children because it lets them explore and find out what interests them as well as teaches children basic skills. I found this a great read and am encouraged to give children a gardening experience.
Abby Pine
Word count: 103
In the review of Brownlee (2004), Paula talked about how children learn by colouring in activities. By watching my own children growing up I have had the chance to view this first hand. It’s amazing how they advance from just mixing all the colours together to mixing a few colours then to adding lots of colours. I have found this book very useful and informative and this has given me a new view on the way children look at life.
Les Queenin
Word count: 80
I found the review of Ladd (2007) by Anita very interesting as she talked about how children learn more from watching each other then from their parents. I’d noticed that our daughter had excelled purely from having one on one time with her older brother, watching him constantly and wanting to do everything that he could do. I will have to have a look at this book because it sounds very informative and will help me advance as a teacher.
Les Queenin
Word count: 80
Source 1:
In the review Dryden,L, Forbes, R,Mukherjee,P.& Pound,L.(2007). Essential early years. London: Hodder Arnold. Jay Joshi had clearly pointed out two major sections of the book, which I had found very true and thought that it is one of the effective ways of helping a child learn how to read is with a supportive buddy. Reading the more defined description of when children scribble as part of their very first drawings, I got more of an understanding as to why and how it is important. But this is something I would really like to try and understand more in the future with my own practice as an early childhood teacher. Kia ora Jay Joshi.
Word count:115
Caroline Malaesilia
Source 2:
In the review Ramage, R.(1997). Every child is a gifted Child: strategies for raising young children today. Christchurch: Kea Press. Abby discusses the importance of having whanau involvement is for the child’s learning. Giving our children the support and encouragement in their learning when they have achieved something. This plays a great part in the child’s learning, I believe if you show interests in the child’s activities it will encourage the child to enjoy themselves in their own learning, and gives them the boost of confidence in their work. I really enjoyed reading this book because it’s exactly the way I would want to help children learn as a teacher my self, especially on wanting to be on the same level as the child, so that the child can feel comfortable and is able to have their learning in a fun and respectable environment. So thanks Abby.
Word count:149
Caroline Malaesilia
By Caroline Malaesilia
Noriko Asada
1. In the review of Ministry of Education(2002),Sara discusses the significance of brain development in infancy. I have read the article from the website and I found that was extremely attractive and amazing issue for our practice. Educators should concern the brain development in the early years and offer the appropriate activities for children. I have never thought about the reason why we have mat-time in daily routines in the kindergarten, however after I had studied the case I believe that there is an interesting relationship between mat-time and brain growth such as music, motor skill development by dancing and language learning.Actually I could not understand the example that Sara puts in the review, so I will ask her to explain to me. I have printed out the issue to keep it for myself as a useful knowledge to improve my teaching practice to be more effective to children.
(149 words)
2. Nimlesh discusses in a chapter from Techniques for Teaching young children by MacNaughton & Williams (2004) on difference between encouraging, praising and helping children. I thought encouraging and praising are similar words however the authors clearly illustrate the dissimilarity of two. For example the time difference among encouraging and praising is encouraging children while doing something and praising after children have achieved what they have done. The article gives me a comprehensible vision of two words and made me think more deeply.
In addition, I am totally agree with Nimlesh about the way of helping and supporting children to increase their motivation to accomplish their goals and give confidence to children’s abilities and skills.
(114 words)
MARYANN AREI
In the review of Anderson, Lynne. (2008). Liam’s Story: The musical journey of a young boy. The First Years; Nga Tau Tuatahi, New Zealand Journal of Infant and Toddler Education. Volume 10, Issue 2, 2008. Kushla talks about how the use of music helped and developed the interaction between the young boy Liam and his family. She also highlights how music help develop the hearing senses of a foetus as stated in the article. I found this article quite interesting as it also relates to my findings where ‘a child’s first experience of a consistent sound is the thud of his mothers heartbeat while in the womb’ Bayley, R. Broadbent, L. (2005). The article also talks about how music can be use as a link not only between the child and family but also with the teacher. This idea is reinforced in the interaction used to understand the child’s life as stated in Kushla’s review. I found this article interesting to read because it helped me understand as a student teacher that music can also be used as a learning instrument.
Source 1
In Paula Bacons review of Brownlee, P (2004) Magic Places: young children’s creative artwork. I agree with Fal’e Davey, that children should not be just coloring and cutting cut outs made by an adult. Because I believe children master their own ideas through free choice of coloring and cutting. They can not develop their own learning if they are made to do things the right way. Children will pick up skills of cutting and coloring in their own time. I do agree that it helps with muscular control. But I feel that coloring and cutting out an adults work, is not really the work of a child.
T.J. Tuaiti
109 words
Source 2
I think that what Ramage (1997), has to say about teachers supporting children’s learning is an area that has interested me. He refers to “supporting them as they teach themselves”. Children learn through experimenting and exploring, by using their senses they learn to make sense of their world around them. My mum let my son taste dirt when he was a baby, she said that he will soon realize he doesn’t like the taste and will stop. He made that decision on his own, that is what Ramage is explaining and has helped me to understand what she did and why? So thanks to Abbey Pine’s review I have been able to understand and learnt something new.
T.J. Tuaiti
121 words
MARYANN AREI
2nd Source Review:
In the review of Gerber, M. (2002). Praise or acknowledgment (2nd ed.). In J. Weaver (Ed.), Dear parent: Caring for infants with respect by Magda Gerber. (pp. 117-118). Maia elaborates on how as adults we often acknowledge children when they have completed a task in the way we expected them to. Although by reading this chapter I am in agreement with Maia in which she reinforces the idea of Gerber (2002) and that is when we praise a child for their achievement we are giving them the idea that if they did not achieve what is to be expected they would not reap the same praise from us. Thus highlighting the idea of acknowledgement as reinforced by Gerber(2009) where she suggest that we should try and acknowledge a child in everything they do rather than praise. I found this chapter quite useful as it teachers me the different in praise and acknowledgement, and as teachers it would be useful to know the difference. Kia ora Maia !
(168 word count)
Liz Reedy
In the review of Ki te Whaiao ( 2004). Which points out the reason of publishing ki te whaiao and also the purpose of Te kohanga reo. They feel one of thee effective ways of getting more people speaking the maori language is through children. Te kohanga was also created to teach the tamariki that whanau is not just your parents and siblings, it also includes family/whanau community and caregivers which gives the child the sense of belonging. Some of the guidelines they enforce are: whanaungatanga, tuakana-teina and mana tangata which is extremely important. These have been highlighted to help maori people to have control over their own lives and to equip them to plan and organize their futures. I agree with many this is a great resource to help get a understanding of Te Kohanga reo and is also an eye opener into the maori language and tikanga seeing Te Whaariki is a bi-cultural document.
Word count: 154
In the review Gerber (2002) Maia discusses the importance of praise. I found this to be quite interesting and would like to do more reading on the subject as I feel it would benefit both me and the children, it would be good to learn how to praise children in a way that would have successful outcome, as in the child knowing exactly why they have been praised, what was it that they did to get acknowledged in such a positive way. Instead of using the usual ‘good boy/girl!’, it is far more effective if you elaborate and tell the child exactly what was so good, with appropriate tone of voice.
(Word Count: 110)
Carrol Bell
In the review Brownlee (2004) Rose talks about how it is important to let children make decisions for him or herself, without the interference of adults. This review was rather interesting as often I see adults making decisions for the child instead of letting the child. Whether it be what colours to use on a painting, what to draw or even what the child should play or build in a sandpit. I too have made ‘suggestions’ to children on what they should do, however at the time not realising it. After reading Rose’s review it has made me realise that I need to let the children make more decisions for themselves, encourage them to make more decisions in their play and learning.
(Word Count: 122)
Carrol Bell
In the review of Helen May (1997), I found this source not only relevant to the theme of teaching and learning in early childhood education, but also very interesting. As Liz discuses in her review, section two gives details on how the curriculum had developed following on from Froebel’s pedagogy and practice. Not only does it discuss the developing theories and practice but also those theories of a child’s development. New Zealand’s response at that time to all the new theories being introduced was not to adopt one but rather, to view a “broad range of perspective” of them all. I found it of great interest when reading the journey in which N.Z early childhood education has taken over these years, and now seeing the astonishing curriculum we have developed into today. All these great theorists including the works of Maria Montessori have made a contribution to the development of the current curriculum.
I feel that this book is very valuable to all New Zealand early childhood educators as it provides knowledge, and has gives understanding of the whakapapa (history) of early childhood in Aotearoa/New Zealand.
186 words
Mandy McMaster
In the review of O’Connor & Diggins (2002) Merrilee talks on the importance of reflecting on your practice as an educator. When reading this chapter I have learnt that when educators chose to be a reflective practitioner, those actions are beneficial to both the educator as well as the learner. What really interest me in this reading was the idea that by reflecting our practice, we can see weather were responding to the needs of the child, and as I am new to early childhood teaching I think this is a great tool to use to better my practice.
Being lifelong learner there is always room for improvement and I believe this book on reflection can give educators very useful knowledge and skills to assist them throughout their teaching years.
129 words
Mandy McMaster
In the review of importance of brain development I found this reading quite interesting as it gave me an insight to how a child’s brain develops and functions. From this reading I learnt the importance of nurturing and stimulating a child’s brain. It also explains how a child’s environment can affect a child’s brain development. Also how talking and singing with the child can stimulate the brain and help it to develop. As a teacher I have not really taken into account how the brain works and functions but after reading this I now know how I can incorporate this knowledge into my teaching and how important it is as this can help a child’s brain develop and grow.
Word count:119
Suria Iuvale
In the review Dockett , S .,& fleer ,M (1999) Anjani discusses about us as adults getting involved in a child's play ,this helps us to learn from children themselves and to improve on our weaknesses with the help of children. I agree with Anjani about how it helped her interact with children using more knowledge , like when this book discusses how we as adults are in a powerful position because we are the moulders of a child’s mind and the role models of their actions. If we as teachers use our initiative when educating children it will help improve our skills when dealing with positive and negative situations.
word count : 110
Cassandra Deane
In the review of Podmore, V. (2006) Chelsea talks about the information she found about observations in early childhood, She talked about the history of observation and why it was important in early childhood, she discussed how this chapter showed the step-by-step process of observation, I found this reading helpful because it gave me the information about observation in a context I could understand clearly, it helped me to understand the background history and where it developed , this reading helped me to reflect on how I observe children and why observing is so important when it comes to children and their learning.
Word count: 103
Cassandra Deane
In the review ‘The creative progress’ Rose talks about the importance of a child’s creative progress, and how we need to make sure that it is the child that makes decisions about their own work by using their imagination and that as teachers we do not interfere with that. I think that this is very important information to be aware of as teachers as the outcome as Rose said can potentially stunt the child’s creative development. I agree with Rose and this reading that it is important to show the child that their work is valued and respected. Talking to the child about their artwork and praising them I think is a great way to encourage their creative development. I also think that it is important to be aware of the questions that could make the child unsure about their creative work.
142 words.
Victoria Mattson
In the review Why be a reflective practitioner: Reflective practice for Early Childhood educators. Merrilee talks about the importance of learning about our teaching thorough the use of constrictive criticism. I also think that this is important in order to improve our teaching skill. I also believe that as teachers we need to be open minded it is an important aspect we need to be open to. I think this chapter is something that we should all read and take into consideration to help us all become better teachers. Like the chapter and Merrilee says, I think it is important that reflective practice is on-going and in order to develop and improve our style of teaching it is essential to look back and see things “in a different light” , and deepen our understanding. This is something that I have taken into consecration and am going to utilize to help me become the best teacher that I am capable of.
160 words.
Victoria Mattson
Paula’s review of Magic places: Young children's creative artwork. States that children will not use 'correct' colours until 'correct' colours becomes important to them, this is so true! I have noticed that within my centre, the younger children are seemingly happy with any colour they put to paper, whereas the older children are more selective.
Again with the older children, they seem to have a firmer grasp on the concept of colouring within the lines, due to more developed muscles in their hands, this is also very evident when using scissors and cutting out pictures.
The exploration of colours and textures is a beautiful thing to watch, I like to make as many mediums available to them as I can, with variation in materials comes more imaginative art work. It is amazing to see what they come up with!
(139)
Karmella Taylor
Anderson, Lynne. (2008). Liam’s Story: The musical journey of a young boy – this I can relate to! It was interesting to read that the first developed sense in the foetus is hearing, this really does reinforce how important music, sounds and even tone of voice are in the early stages of a child’s life.
Personally, I was humming Smoke on the water (Deep Purple) before I learned to talk. This may seem strange, though not in my living situation. As a baby I was exposed to bands who would come and perform at our place, and quickly became passionate about music. Music is not everyone’s passion, but I can see how it can largely influence moods and encourage interaction and understanding within a family or group.
(126)
Karmella Taylor
Aimee has reviewed “Young children’s behaviour” by Porter (2003). Porter goes through two different ways of disciplining a child, the Controlling and Guidance methods. This interests me as I have been a nanny and have used the control style often used by parents. So I am interested in learning about the guidance style and how I could use that in my role as a teacher. I feel this book could be a valuable read to further myself as a teacher.
As a nanny I frequently use the control style i.e. rewards and punishment. Depending on the family I have more freedom to reward or punish children, giving a concept of consequences for actions. In a centre I have less freedom to punish children; therefore researching different methods of leadership (i.e. the guidance method) will benefit me in my teaching practice, providing me with new ideas and methods of interacting with children.
151 Words
Rose Adams
Rhonda has reviewed Take Another Look Tirohia Anō: A guide to observing children He momo ārahi ki te tiro i ngā tamariki by Penrose, P. (1998). Penrose talks about observing children in their learning experience, gives different methods of observation, and gives detailed information of each area of play broken down into small segments. Penrose includes other theorists such as Piaget, Vygotsky and Bronfenbrenner.
This relates to me as I have been a nanny and have observed children in their home environment. Being in a different situation I think it will be beneficial for me to use other observation methods as in the new environment I will have to be aware of new and different aspects of a child’s life and my current methods of observations may not be as effective. Researching this will help me to further me in my teaching practice.
143 Words
Rose Adams
Jade Lochmann
Review 1:
Penrose, P. (1998). Take another look Tirohia Ano: A guide to observing children He momo arahi ki te tiro i nga tamariki. In response to Fal'e I found that this review was very interesting and would be keen to read more on this subject i was especially suprised to learn that children who are praised from an adult are more likely to develope speech at an earlier age than those who are not stimulated in this way. I feel it can be an advantage to have this knowledge to ensure your way of teaching is benefiting all children.
97 words.
Review 2:
Cole, E. (2004).Walk in Their Shoes: A Day in the School Life of an Spld Student . Great Britain: Barrington Stoke Ltd. In response to Carly I was drawn to this review as i am eager to research more into learning difficulties. I have come across children with these conditions and have/do wonder and want to know how i can change my style of teaching to a way that these children are able to understand and feel comfortable. I have had the opportunity to meet/know many children with special needs in primary and secondary school and i could see the advantage of them have a good programme set in place right from early childhood. I feel strongly about this and will definatly read into more of this.
128 words
Review 1:
In reading the journal Anderson, Lynne. (2008). Liam’s Story: The musical journey of a young boy. I find it amazing how children can learn through something as beautiful as music. Hearing is the first of the senses to be developed in the foetus, and unborn babies as young as 16 weeks will respond to music (Young, 2003). Babies are not only able to hear, and are listening in to music before birth, but they also remember and recognise this music after birth (Glover ft Young, 1998; Young, 2003). It has shown me that music creates interaction between children and their families and benefits them. The article has shown me how music helps with development and understanding and why it should be an important part of a child’s life and how it gives them independence in their learning or singing and chanting words to learn something but it’s a creative learning process which I love as I find that if children a having fun and learning something it is going to stick with them. I found this article really helpful in a way that I want to incorporate music into my teaching.
Lizee Harris
193 words
Review 2:
In the review of Brownlee (2004) Rose explains the importance of allowing a child's creativity to flow when using their imagination. It interests me how Rose talks about how it is necessary to let the child make their own decisions and how if we as adults interfere it can stunt their creative development. As a person I find it hard not to interfere in some children’s work especially something like art as it is such a big part of my life like when doing projects or creative things I feel I say things I think will make it better but now as a teacher I have learnt to step back and observe how children do things as their imagination is so full of ideas I wouldn’t even think of. Her suggestion of encouragement and support towards the child’s creative work is something I am going to do more of as a teacher I love the way children express themselves through something creative and I am glad to be a part of it when I am.
Lizee Harris
175 words
In the review of Bayley (2005) Maryann discussed that how music can have impact on children’s movement and memory. I think this book is very interesting for me to read as that I believe that music is a huge inspiration for development for children and I think this book will help me to understand deeper that why music affect children so much, what kind of effects that music have on children and what type of skills that children can develop through music and how we help them. This book seems very useful to me as even though I am interested in this area but I don’t have too much acknowledge of it so it will be really useful as it can give me lots of information that I could use to teach my students later.
Word count:135
Melody Sun
In the review of Ramage (1997) Aimee talkes about this book gives us lots of learning and teaching strategies. She talks about mostly children learn effectively with lots of encouragement and good environment that we provide for them. Also she talks about in the book it discussed that how to encourage children to do things that they are capable with rather than pushing them into things that they can’t do etc. I found this book very useful, especially for people like me that don’t really have much work experience with children. It give us an idea of what we should do and what we should not do to help children to learn which I had no idea before. So I think this book will be very valuable to read as it provides lots of strategies that you may not know before and it will help you to be a better teacher.
Word count:148
Melody Sun
Sharyn Griffen **
In the review of Bayley and Broadbent (2005), Maryanne discusses how this particular chapter is about music helping a child with moving their body and developing their memory. She talks about how it develops a child’s listening, verbal speech and memory. I agree strongly with this idea as music can be difficult when you have to remember so much, such as the tune of the song, what the actions are, the beat and lots more. It also helps children to have fun while learning and can be calming so they have the chance to learn and interact with other children.
In the review of Browlee (2004), Paula talks about how important colouring in is for children. She explains how colouring in helps a child’s muscles develop when they try to stay in the lines of a picture. I found this really interesting because we as adults sometimes want to do it for the child so it looks nice but when we do that we are stopping the opportunity for the child to learn and develop. This book would be a great read for us as adults so we can help encourage children in different areas of their learning.
Word count: 200
I too am referring to the review of Eliason, C., & Jenkins, L. [1999, I find that Noriko couldn’t have chosen a more interesting source to review. I love the fact that children do not just learn in one particular way. Everyday in the early childhood centre you will find a child learning in a totally different way to another. When they learn I at the same time learn too. Being a part of a child’s learning experience is the most rewarding thing for myself. When reading this the main thing that kept coming into mind was the common saying “no child is the same” whether it be cultural differences or in this case the way they learn. I loved this reading and fully agree with what has been said. I can definitely keep this in mind with my teaching experience
Jaime' Oosthuizen
word count: 141